Solar energy is a type of renewable energy that converts sunlight into a useable energy in the form of electricity.

Solar developments, sometimes referred to as ‘solar farms’, are a type of renewable energy project designed to supply power to homes and businesses. When the sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, electrons in the solar panel cells collide and generate a current. This current can then be transformed and transferred to the electricity grid, supplying power to customers.

Unlike solar panels installed on private dwellings, solar developments must connect to nearby energy infrastructure so that the power they generate can be supplied to the grid and subsequently distributed.

The proposed location has been selected for its strong solar resource, discrete low-lying lands, proximity of the various land holdings to one another (requiring minimal underground cabling or disruption) and importantly, its proximity to the national grid via the 110kV Drumline substation.

Solar sites must meet statutory regulations and be developed in accordance with all applicable planning requirements.

In general, solar panels are no more than 12 feet and low-lying. For BNRG Ballycunneen, the local topography, combined with hedgerows, buffer zones, solar panel set-backs from public roads and new planting and fencing, will help screen the solar array panels.

Solar energy provides electricity to homes and businesses using only the sun's rays. This renewable energy does not use fossil fuels, is a quiet neighbour to nearby farms, fields, and homes, and does not generate emissions, traffic, or odour.

Solar energy is a cost-effective, clean green energy source. Ireland has set a target of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Solar energy is projected to be a major contributor to this target. BNRG Ballycunneen will help meet these national targets by delivering 60MW* of clean solar energy.

*Estimates only

BNRG Ballycunneen is committed to protecting the local environment. A wide range of assessments and surveys will identify areas of conservation and inform the design of the solar farm. This will include a Biodiversity Enhancement Management Plan that will survey bats, birds, habitats and flora. We will ensure this solar farm supports biodiversity and wildlife during its operation. Hedgerows and planting will provide shelter and ensure a wildlife pathway corridor will be protected.

Solar farms often provide shelter to wildlife, whilst sheep grazing can continue to take place on the land.

South East Clare is an important and respected historic area. With a focus on preserving local heritage, an Archaeology Impact Assessment will survey historical sites of interest. This will include in-depth research and archaeological experts on site. Local heritage and archaeological features will be mapped, and generous mitigations put in place across all parcels of land as necessary.

As the solar panels are located on private lands, there will be minimal disruption during the up to 9 month build, with limited heavy construction time and access to local houses, farms and businesses maintained. A comprehensive Traffic Management Plan will be submitted as part of the planning process to ensure that steady traffic flow can continue throughout the construction phase of the solar development.

Our Community Liaison Officer David Linnane will be available to respond to any queries during the construction phase.