143.4-hectare solar farm proposed at Raheenbeg Ballychristal Killarles and, Co. Offaly

In context

It is one of 28 solar farm applications Offaly County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 339 nationally. Of the 573 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 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 Offaly County Council register. This is the source for every figure in the story above.

RED III application - The development will consist of planning permission for a period of 10 years to construct and complete a solar PV energy development (renewable energy development) with a total site area of 143.4 hectares, comprising of the construction of PV panels mounted on metal frames, inverters, internal access tracks, perimeter fencing with CCTV cameras and access gates, electrical cabling and ducting, two temporary construction compounds, landscaping and all ancillary grid infrastructure and associated works. The proposed development will utilise two existing access points, which will include the upgrading and widening of an existing access off the L1013. The solar farm would be operational for 40 years. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of this 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