A NEW generator means an end to power cuts on Bere Island which was left without electricity for over 30 hours in 2024 when a cable was damaged by a boat.

Bere Island Projects Group purchased the generator which will power the community centre during outages - and provide a hub for islanders to use until power is restored.

The island’s population of 218 were all left without power, unable to cook or heat their homes, after the January 2024 incident.

With many homes relying on wells for their water supply, people were also left without running water as the pumps attached to the well are electric.

Due to the sporadic nature of mobile phone coverage on the island, many homes were also without any form of communication for the duration of the power outage. 

Lighting on both island piers was also knocked out which meant those disembarking from evening ferries, or landing their own boats had to do so in darkness.

With damage to power cables caused by Storm Ophelia in 2017 some island homes were without power for five days.

Funding from the Department of Rural, Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the ‘Our Islands’ measure in the Clar 2024 programme of €16,605 was awarded to purchase a generator for the island community centre.

Michael MacCarthy, project co-ordinator with Bere Island Projects Group said the new generator would enable the group to future-proof the island.

‘With the increasing frequency and strength of winter storms, if there are significant power outages, we can now provide a hub in the community centre for islanders to come and get a hot drink or meal, charge their phones and laptops, and stay warm.’

Islander Brenda Elphick, a volunteer presenter with Bere Island Community Radio, said the generator it would give people peace of mind.

‘Now if we are without power for any length of time, I know I can get hot water, and charge my phone and laptop at the community centre. The radio also broadcasts from the community centre, so the generator will also ensure we are able to stay on air.’