Galway City Council has been awarded a €3.36 million grant from the European Union to launch the WATERWAY project, an initiative designed to revitalize the city’s historic canals.
Revitalizing Galway’s Canals
The council is the first local authority in Ireland to receive funding through the European Urban Initiative (EUI) – innovative actions programme. The grant, awarded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), aims to transform the canals into a source of clean energy and enhance public spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.
The WATERWAY project will involve installing three little-scale hydropower turbines at sites including the Mill Street Canal, Terryland Waterworks, and the Mclaughlin Building on Nun’s Island. These turbines are intended to harness the natural flow of the canals to generate electricity.
Existing infrastructure at the proposed locations, such as turbines, sluices, and culverts, will be utilized to minimize disruption during the modernization process. The generated electricity will be used to power buildings, electric vehicle charging stations, and will be fed back into the electrical grid.
Environmental Considerations and Community Engagement
Galway City Council has stated the initiative is designed to be safe for wildlife, with no equipment planned for installation in the main Corrib River. The project will focus solely on the city’s existing industrial canals.
A “Living Lab” will be established as part of the project, offering workshops, learning experiences, and site visits for schools, colleges, community groups, and the public. The University of Galway will also develop new academic modules focused on hydropower, sustainability, and innovation.
The project is expected to generate revenue that will be reinvested into local climate initiatives, community campaigns, and future green infrastructure.
The first turbine installation is anticipated later this year, with the entire project scheduled for completion in early 2029.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the WATERWAY project?
The WATERWAY project aims to revitalize Galway’s historic canals as a source of clean energy and improve public engagement for pedestrians and cyclists.
Where will the hydropower turbines be located?
The proposed locations for the turbines are the Mill Street Canal, Terryland Waterworks, and the Mclaughlin Building on Nun’s Island.
Will the project impact wildlife in the canals?
The council has stated the micro hydropower initiative is safe for wildlife, and no equipment will be installed in the main Corrib River.
As Galway City Council moves forward with the WATERWAY project, how might this initiative influence other cities in Ireland and the EU seeking to integrate sustainable energy solutions into their urban landscapes?
Worth a look