A major €20 million solar farm project in Celbridge, Co Kildare, has been granted planning approval, marking a significant step in Ireland’s renewable energy development.

The project, set in Griffinrath, will span 44.21 hectares and feature 76,000 photovoltaic panels mounted on ground frames. The development will include 10 transformer stations, 124 string-inverters, and an onsite 38kV substation. A 40ft storage container and seven CCTV security cameras on four-metre poles will also be installed.

Perimeter security fencing (2m high) and an internal hardcore access road are planned to support construction and maintenance. The project also involves local road improvements to facilitate access from the L5065 road. Additionally, a 38kV underground electricity cable will connect the solar farm’s substation to the 110kV Griffinrath substation, located 0.75km southeast of the site.

A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared as part of the project’s environmental assessment.

The solar farm is expected to operate for 35 years, contributing to Ireland’s renewable energy targets and enhancing the country’s electricity grid.