EDF Renewables Ireland Announces Plans For C.50MW Clare Wind Farm

EDF Renewables Ireland is announcing plans to develop a c.50MW wind farm on land east of Broadford in Co. Clare. The proposed Lackareagh Wind Farm, which could power more than 35,000 homes, will be located in the townlands of Killeagy and Shannaknock. 

Detailed environmental studies

The project team is currently gathering wind data and mapping the environmental constraints on site which will be used to create a preliminary wind turbine layout. Detailed environmental studies will also be carried out at the site, including ecology, noise, landscape, and visual assessments.

The results of these studies and feedback gathered in consultation with local communities will be used to determine the final wind farm layout and the number of turbines. 

planning application and permission

A Community Benefit Fund commensurate with the size of the final project will be established to provide funding

EDF Renewables Ireland intends to submit a planning application and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report in support of the project, which could consist of up to seven turbines, to Clare County Council in early 2023.

Subject to planning permission, the wind farm could be constructed and operational by 2026. A Community Benefit Fund commensurate with the size of the final project will be established to provide funding for local community initiatives and activities. 

Addressing climate crisis

EDF Renewables Ireland is committed to keeping local people informed about its projects and a public consultation event will take place as the Lackareagh Wind Farm progresses. This will be either online or in a local venue, depending on Covid-19 guidelines.

Commenting on the announcement, Kevin Daly, Head of Development at EDF Renewables Ireland, said, “With the effects of the climate crisis becoming ever more visible, projects like Lackareagh Wind Farm are more important than ever."

Renewable electricity

He adds, "Ireland has ambitious targets to deliver 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by the end of this decade, and onshore wind is the most efficient means of achieving this. The project will also deliver significant investment in the area in the form of the Community Benefit Fund and rates, which will provide funding for local initiatives and activities."

Kevin Daly continues, “As the project progresses we’ll be working closely with local residents and the wider community in East Clare, and the County Council, to keep them updated and informed on how Lackareagh Wind Farm will benefit the local area.”