93-hectare solar farm proposed at Cahernashilleeny Knockdoebeg West Knockdoemore, Lackagh Turloughmore, Co. Galway

In context

It is one of 12 solar farm applications Galway County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 348 nationally. Of the 561 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 92% were granted.

What happens next

The five-week window for public submissions has closed. The council is due to decide by 10 November 2026, unless it requests further information, which stops the clock.

The development description, as lodged

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

for a 10-year period for a solar farm with a total area of circa 93 hectares. The proposed development will consist of a solar farm comprising of c. 352,500 sq.m of solar photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames, associated string inverters mounted to rear of panels, 18 no. single storey electrical transformer stations, 3 no. spare parts containers and 1 no. office unit. The overall project will also consist of underground electrical ducting and cabling within the development site and within the R354 public road, temporary construction compounds, security and acoustic fencing, CCTV, access tracks, landscaping, drainage and all ancillary development works and apparatus necessary to facilitate the proposed development. Construction and operational access will be via 2 no. existing entrance from the N83 and L21332 which will be subject to upgrades. The operational lifespan of the solar farm will be 40 years and planning permission is requested for this duration. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413) and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply