Ireland: Large solar farm planned for Longford could power 18,400 homes

A significant solar energy farm, Carrowroe Solar Farm, is being planned for a site near Lanesborough in County Longford, Ireland. Global renewable energy developer BNRG is in discussions with the local council for the project, which could generate enough electricity to power approximately 18,400 households and reduce carbon emissions by nearly 28,000 tonnes each year.

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The project, known as Carrowroe Solar Farm, has the potential to generate enough energy to meet the needs of about 18,400 households and save almost 28,000 tonnes of carbon from being emitted each year, the developer says.

The proposed farm would occupy a 98-hectare site bordering the River Shannon. Once operational, the land could still be used for certain agricultural activities, such as sheep grazing. This development follows ESB's Middleton House Solar Farm, which is already under construction nearby and is expected to power over 15,000 homes.

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Lanesborough has emerged as an attractive base for renewable energy projects because of its proximity to a former power station, which has an existing grid connection for electricity transmission.

Lanesborough has become a focal point for renewable energy initiatives due to its strategic location near a former power station with an established grid connection. The flat peatland terrain and "Just Transition" programs, designed to support green energy alternatives to peat harvesting, further incentivize developers.

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The developers estimate, with planning permission, the construction could begin in 2028, with the project operational by 2029.

BNRG is collaborating with Plan Energy Developments on the Carrowroe project. A public consultation was held in July, and ongoing discussions with Longford County Council are underway. The developers have outlined plans to mitigate environmental impact, including avoiding seasonal flooding, using natural planting for screening, and positioning low-lying panels to minimize visual disruption. Construction could commence in 2028, with operations beginning by 2029, pending planning permission. The project also includes a commitment to a community benefit fund estimated at €2.45 million over its lifetime.

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The backers say the project would establish a community benefit fund, with an estimated value of €2.45 million over the project’s lifetime.