Decision on massive 345 acre Kildare solar farm due in September
Plans for Glenaree Solar Farm being considered by Kildare County Council
GP Joule Ireland Ltd wants to install rows of ground mounted solar panels, 30 transformers and other electrical equipment using three existing construction and operational entrances across six townlands. The proposed development will involve the construction of approximately 7km of new internal access tracks. Planning permission is sought for a period of 10 years, with an operational life of 40 years from the date of commissioning
The proposed solar project is located in the townlands of Cloncurry, Cappanargid, Barnaran, Glenaree, Feighcullen and Drumsru. The plans have been lodged with Kildare County Council. Members of the public can make submissions on the plans by August 26. A decision is due on September 16.
The application states that at the maximum height, the panels would be approximately 3m above ground level. The land underneath and in between the arrays will be seeded with a grass mix, whilst the margins will be seeded with wildflowers.