Plans for Killeshandra solar farm

A-10-year planning permission has been sought from Cavan County Council to facilitate the development of a solar farm on lands between Killeshandra and Ballyconnell.

Colwell Brothers Limited, one of Ireland’s leading solar installers for the mushroom and agri sector, submitted an application to local planners last week, proposing to build a near six-hectare solar array with a operational lifetime of 35 years.

Along with the addition of photovoltaic solar panels on mounted frames, Colwell Bros intend to build an electrical control hub and MV power station at Bocade Glebe, together with underground electrical and communications cabling; access tracks; security fencing; CCTV; and all associated site works.

Gaeltech Energy presented the council with a planning statement on behalf of Colwell Bros, in which they outline the “actual footprint” will be approximately 40% of the circa 5.9ha envisaged.

The electrical capacity of the proposed development is approximately six megawatts.

However, the statement says it is “important to highlight that the efficiency and electrical capacity of solar panels is rapidly evolving, and it is proposed to install the optimal and most efficient technology available during the construction phase”.

The statement adds that the proposed development is also dependent on achieving a connection offer to the national electricity grid network, which is under the auspices of EirGrid or ESB Networks.

“A grid connection application can only be made upon receipt of planning permission and after a competitive auction process as part of the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS).”

The Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening Report, meanwhile, concluded that the proposed development “does not pose a risk of significant effects” on Natura 2000 sites.

A decision on the application is due on or before July 6 provided no further information is required.