Project Being Considered
This Proposal
The proposed Ballyvatta 110kv Independent Power Producer (IPP) Substation project is a required upgrade to support the Ballyvatta 55MW Solar Farm. Substation facilities like this play a crucial role in Ireland’s electricity grid system and ultimately Ireland’s green transition.
This will be a tail-fed transmission substation, the construction of which is a direct requirement by Eirgrid in order to ensure that the clean power generated from the Ballyvatta Solar Farm can flow freely and reach homes, communities and businesses.
This standalone development ensures that no additional, unrelated infrastructure will need to be constructed in the future, maintaining the integrity of the local environment and community interests.
A tail-fed transmission substation acts as a gateway, allowing power to flow from the existing substation, onto the grid.
Ballyvatta Projects Overview |
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| Ballyvatta Substation (seeking planning) | Ballyvatta Solar Farm (permitted) | |
| Technology Involved | 110KV Independent Power Producer (IPP) substation | 55MWp Solar |
| Planning Status | Planning to be submitted to An Board Pleanála in Q3 2024 | Planning secured in 2017 |
| Timeline | Determined on the securing of planning for Ballyvatta substation | |
| Biodiversity Management Plan | No. A Natura Impact Statement and An Appropriate Assessment Report were required for this project | Yes |
| Community Benefit Fund | No | €130,000 dependent on securing planning for the proposed substation |
| Rates Paid to Local Authorities | No | Yes. Determined on the securing of planning for the substation |
| Associate Works | All cabling will be underground; access track from the L6989 south; 110kV grid transformer and two-house transformers within bunded enclosures (height approximately 6m) and associated infrastructure; drainage works; temporary site compound; telecommunication dishes; security lighting; perimeter security fencing and entrance gates; lightning protection masts; MV switch gear containers; and appropriate screening measures | All associated grid cabling will be underground; photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on metal frames; access tracks; perimeter fencing with closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras; two site entrances and access gates; drainage works; two temporary construction compounds; and appropriate screening measures |