Planning approval for solar farm in County Clare

The proposed solar farm will comprise 309,008 sqm of photovoltaic panels, ground mounted frames, and associated ancillary infrastructure, including a 38 kV substation and 21 electrical skids within 7 no. electrical compounds. Power generated by the proposed solar farm will be exported from the on-site substation to a 110kV substation adjacent to the Ardnacrusha hydro plant via underground cabling.

The proposed solar farm will be surrounded by secure fencing. Existing hedgerows and field boundaries will be maintained and enhanced. A number of biodiversity zones will also be included within the solar farm.

The project has the capacity to contribute a significant amount of clean, renewable energy which can be distributed not only to local homes and businesses but also transmitted to towns and cities across Ireland. The proposed solar farm will also contribute to meeting Ireland’s renewable energy targets for up to 80% of electricity to be generated from renewable sources by 2030.

Local people were engaged extensively throughout the planning process for this development. With Harmony Solar remaining attentive to their feedback, this resulted in greater setback distances between the site boundary and surrounding properties, additional screening between the site and said properties, provision of acoustic fencing and even amendments to the access routes servicing the solar farm – all to protect residential amenity and make the solar farm a seamless part of the local landscape and community.

We are thankful for the opportunity to make this project a reality and look forward to working with Harmony Solar on future renewable energy ventures.