Community feedback
We want to hear from you
We would like to hear how you think that this proposal could work best in the area, how you think it could bring the most benefit to the local area and to discuss any queries or concerns that you might have regarding the proposal.
We would also like to discuss with you the reasons behind why this project is being brought forward for consideration and the issues that we need to consider in terms of transitioning from a fossil fuel-based electricity system towards renewable electricity.
Our community liaison team will be calling to people in the local area and we would invite you to meet with us. If you would like to contact us to arrange a visit, please do not hesitate to do so via the details on our Contact Page.
Design stages and next steps
This proposal is still at design stage. As a result, details of the proposal may change. Our community engagement team will be working in the area to ensure that information is available and that you have an opportunity to discuss the various aspects of this proposal.
Overview of the design stages |
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| Design Stage | % Design | Description |
| Initial Scoping | 0 - 40% | Based on high-level information |
| Preliminary Layout | 40 - 80% | Fluid and frequently open to change |
| Design Layout | 80 - 100% | Sufficiently fixed to allow meaningful discussion |
| Planning Layout | 100% | Fixed for presentation to the appropriate planning authority |
Design review
Click on any of the topics below to read the content and its response:
Many people cited shadow flicker as one of their main concerns, saying that they felt it would be intrusive in their homes. For this project to work well in the local area, it was decided that the issue would have to be addressed.
Revised proposal on shadow flicker
We can confirm that there will be zero shadow flicker at homes in the area.
This will be achieved by installing software and equipment on the turbines that can identify the weather conditions that might cause shadow flicker. This includes wind direction, speed, sunlight and the position of the sun. When these weather conditions are identified, the turbines will automatically shut down.
As is required in our Environmental Impact Assessment Report, we will fully assess the potential for shadow flicker at all homes in the area. Importantly, however, we will commit in this report and our planning application to zero shadow flicker at homes in the local area.
Many people have expressed a desire for increased distance between turbines and houses. It was felt that the minimum setback required by the current guidelines was closer than what people would be comfortable with and that, should the project be granted planning permission, the proposal would be more acceptable if this distance was greater.
Revised proposal in terms of proximity
The minimum distance between houses in the wider community and turbines has been increased from 500m to 640m. To achieve this, the number of turbines proposed has been reduced from 14 to 11.
There are certain distances required between wind turbines to allow for efficient operation; therefore, situating the turbines closer together to increase the distance from houses was not a viable option. This meant reducing the overall number of turbines and making changes to the proposed layout.
Some people have raised concerns that noise may be an issue from the wind farm.
Revised proposal on noise
As this revised proposal has increased the setback distance to houses as detailed above, any noise from the wind passing over the blade of the turbines will also be reduced. If you have any concerns in this regard, we would always advise visiting a wind farm and talking to the people in that area.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Why is this project being considered?
A number of people have queried why we are asking you to consider a wind energy proposal here again. The three main reasons are:
- We previously received feedback from the planning authorities and county council that indicate that this area may have the potential to accommodate a wind energy development.
- It is clear that action must be taken on climate change and our fossil fuel dependency. Where an opportunity exists to develop renewable energy, it should be explored.
- We are asking you to consider this proposal so that we can take your feedback on board and make changes to our design that reflect what you are telling us.
We believe that this project warrants consideration. Importantly, we are working with the community to allow you the opportunity to influence any proposal that will be brought forward for consideration by the planning authorities.
Q: Why should I consider a wind farm in my area?
A wind farm has the potential to make a real difference to your life in a very positive way. Ireland has committed to moving towards becoming a low-carbon economy; this will require changes in the way society operates.
We believe that renewable energy projects should support the environmental, economic and social sustainability of local communities. The above table outlines some of the areas where we would see that real and significant opportunities exist.