A planning application has been lodged with Waterford City and County Council seeking permission for a large-scale solar energy development in the townlands of Lahardan, Glenhouse, Kilmoyemoge East, Kilmoyemoge West, Ballycahane, and Hacketstown, County Waterford.

Cullenagh Solar Farm Limited are seeking a 10-year planning permission to deliver the project, which would operate for a lifespan of 40 years.

The proposed development – which was submitted on September 16th – spans approximately 43.6 hectares and would involve the installation of solar PV panels on ground-mounted frames and ballast mounts.

Key elements of the plan include:

• Nine transformer inverter stations.

• Electrical and communications cabling across private lands and local public roads (L4026 and L40262).

• Pole-mounted security cameras.

• Two-metre high perimeter fencing and security gates.

• The upgrading of an existing entrance on the L4026, the closure of another, and the creation of a new site entrance on the L40262.

• Road upgrade works at the junction of the L4026 and L40262.

• Two temporary construction compounds.

• Internal access tracks.

• Associated site development works including drainage, landscaping, and reinstatement.

A Natura Impact Statement accompanies the application, assessing the potential environmental effects of the project, which falls under the scope of the EU Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive 2023/2413)

A decision on the application is expected on or before November 10th.

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