A decision to grant solar farm planning permission Waterford has triggered widespread concern among residents and local representatives.
The development will cover 43.6 hectares of land between Portlaw and Ballyduff Lower in mid-County Waterford.
Cullenagh Solar Farm Limited submitted the application in September.
The project includes large solar panel arrays, nine transformer inverter stations, and associated infrastructure.
Concerns Over Agricultural Land Use
Independent Councillor Declan Clune said residents accept the need for renewable energy.
However, he said strong opposition exists to placing large-scale solar farms on high-quality agricultural land.
He warned that productive farmland risks becoming industrial landscapes under current planning decisions.
Claims Mid-County Waterford Is Being Targeted
Councillor Clune raised wider concerns about the volume of solar developments in the Comeragh district area.
He described the level of applications in mid-County Waterford as excessive.
He said communities feel targeted by developers seeking large rural landbanks.
More Than 100 Submissions Lodged
The planning authority received 109 observations on the proposal.
Most submissions came from local residents.
Concerns included environmental impacts, landscape change, and effects on wildlife.
Residents also highlighted stress and anxiety linked to the prolonged planning process.
Appeals and Planning System Criticism
Councillor Clune confirmed he has enough grounds to proceed with planning appeals.
He criticised the lack of cohesive national planning guidelines for solar developments.
He said local authorities apply different criteria, creating inconsistency across counties.
Calls for Clearer National Direction
Councillor Clune said renewable energy policy needs clearer national leadership.
He warned that communities will continue to face uncertainty without consistent planning rules.
He said local voices must carry greater weight in major energy decisions.
The issue now moves to the appeals stage, with residents continuing to oppose the development.
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