Solar farm proposed at Sandfordscourt House, Sandfordscourt, Co. Kilkenny

In context

It is one of 13 solar farm applications Kilkenny County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 351 nationally. Of the 564 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 92% were granted.

What happens next

Anyone can make a submission or observation to Kilkenny County Council until 25 November 2026, for a fee of €20. Only those who make a submission can later appeal the decision. The council is due to decide by 16 December 2026, unless it requests further information, which stops the clock.

How to make a submission

The development description, as lodged

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

for development The development consists of a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) array comprising 32 solar panels, installed within an existing, disused sand-based equestrian arena. Dimensions of Installation: Depth: 2.1 metres Width: 18.6 metres Maximum Height: 3.3 metres Location and Visual Screening: The solar PV installation is situated approximately 22.8 metres from the public road, within an existing, previously developed equestrian arena. The installation is naturally screened from the public road by a substantial, mature hedgerow situated on top of an existing earthen embankment measuring approximately 1.5 metres in height. The combined height of the embankment and mature hedgerow is approximately 5.5 metres, providing significant natural screening and minimising the visual impact of the solar array when viewed from the public road. Landscape and Environmental Considerations: The development makes productive use of an existing, unused equestrian area without requiring the removal of established hedgerows or significant alterations to the surrounding landscape. The existing mature vegetation and earthen embankment are retained, preserving the established rural character of the site while providing effective visual screening. The solar PV installation supports the generation of renewable electricity, reducing reliance on grid-supplied electricity and fossil fuels. Summary: The development represents a low-impact renewable energy installation within an existing, previously utilised area of the property. Its location, separation from the public road, and substantial natural screening ensure that it is appropriately integrated into the surrounding rural landscape, with limited visual impact on the public realm.