EDF Renewables has unveiled plans to develop a 30MW wind farm in County Roscommon, Ireland.
The proposed Carrowkeel Wind Farm will be located approximately 14km north-west of Athlone, in the townlands of Kilmass, Rahara, Longfield, Grange and Corralea.
EDF Renewables Ireland intends to submit a planning application and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report in support of the project in late 2024.
Subject to planning permission, the scheme could be constructed and operational by 2028.
EDF Renewables’ project team is gathering wind data and mapping the environmental constraints on site, which will be used to create a preliminary wind turbine layout.
Detailed environmental studies will also be carried out at the location, including ecology, noise, landscape and visual assessments.
The project could consist of up to five wind turbines with tip heights of up to 180 metres, however the results of these studies, together with feedback gathered in consultation with local communities, will be used to determine the final layout and number of machines.
A Community Benefit Fund commensurate with the size of the final project will be established to provide funding for local community initiatives and activities.
EDF Renewables Ireland is committed to keeping local people informed about its projects, and information about the project is being distributed to all homes within 2km of the site this week. Further public consultation, including a public exhibition, will take place as plans for Carrowkeel Wind Farm progress.
Head of development at EDF Renewables Ireland Jenny Howard said: “Projects like Carrowkeel Wind Farm are essential if Ireland is to increase its security of supply, lower energy costs and meet its target of delivering 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by the end of the decade.
“This is a significant project for the local area, and EDF Renewables is committed to being a good neighbour.
“We will be consulting closely with members of the local community at all stages of the project to keep them updated on its progress, and if the project is consented and constructed we look forward to supporting local initiatives through the creation of a Community Benefit Fund.”