Wind farm grid connection works proposed at Littlesilver, Bandon, Co. Cork

In context

It is one of 8 wind energy applications Cork County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 61 nationally. Of the 85 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 74% were granted.

What happens next

The five-week window for public submissions has closed. The council normally decides within eight weeks of the application being lodged, unless it requests further information, which stops the clock.

The development description, as lodged

Verbatim from the Cork County Council register. This is the source for every figure in the story above.

EDF Renewables Ireland Limited intend to apply for a 10 Year Permission for development at this site of c. 1.29 ha, located on lands at Littlesilver, Bandon, Co. Cork. The proposed development consists of a battery energy storage system (BESS) facility, which will comprise of rechargeable battery units contained within 28 no. c. 25 ft containers on site; 7 no. MVs units; 1 no. auxiliary transformer; a resistor, reactor and harmonic filter unit; a low voltage (LV) building and a welfare and spares container. The proposed development also involves the diversion of the existing overhead line on site and includes an underground cable, which will connect the BESS facility to the Bandon 110kV substation. The proposed development will include for the demolition and removal of the existing decommissioned wind turbine and associated outbuilding on site. The proposed development also includes the construction of a 38kV substation building with associated compounds and car parking; stock proof fencing and gateways; landscaping; foul water holding tank; rainwater harvesting tank; stone soakaways; piped infrastructure and ducting; retention basin and stone headwall; signage; security fencing; boundary treatments; lighting; CCTV; SUDs; permeable gravel area; upgrading of the existing site entrance with partial hedgerow removal; new access track and upgrading of the existing access track; and all associated site development and excavation works above and below ground. Planning permission is sought for a period of 10 years.