Plans lodged for large solar farm near Duckett’s
A final decision is due on 4 September
PLANS for a large solar farm in the vicinity of Carlow’s historic Duckett’s Grove have gone before the county council for consideration. Lightsource Renewable Energy Ireland Limited is seeking planning permission for Solar PV Energy Development, along with an associated battery energy storage system (BESS) compound, on a 132-hectare site on lands in Straboe and Killerig. While initially sought for a ten-year period, there is a proposed 40-year operational period.
The development will consist of solar panels mounted on steel support structures, associated cabling and ducting, inverters, transformers, switchgear substations, auxiliary transformer, permanent storage containers and monitoring houses.
Permission is also sought to install boundary security fencing, security gates and CCTV, as well as landscaping and ancillary works.
The proposed development will be accessed from four separate points, which will include a new access point created off the R726, a new entrance off Straboe Lane, a widened and improved existing entrance off Straboe Lane and use of an existing and previously consented entrance off the R418.
A ‘natura impact statement’ has been submitted to the planning authority with the application. Submissions on the plans can be made to Carlow County Council before 14 August, with a final decision due on 4 September.
