EDF Renewables Ireland has announced plans to develop a 50MW wind farm on land to the east of Broadford in County Clare.
The proposed Lackareagh Wind Farm, which could power more than 35,000 homes, will be located in the townlands of Killeagy and Shannaknock.
The project team is currently 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 site, including ecology, noise, landscape and visual assessments.
The results of these studies, together with feedback gathered in consultation with local communities, will be used to determine the final wind farm layout and number of turbines.
EDF Renewables Ireland intends to submit a planning application and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report in support of the project, which could consist of up to seven turbines, to Clare County Council in early 2023.
Subject to planning permission, the wind farm could be constructed and operational by 2026.
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 a public consultation event will take place as the Lackareagh Wind Farm progresses.
This will be either online or in a local venue, depending on Covid-19 guidelines.
EDF Renewables Ireland head of development Kevin Daly said: “With the effects of the climate crisis becoming ever more visible, projects like Lackareagh Wind Farm are more important than ever.
“Ireland has ambitious targets to deliver 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by the end of this decade, and onshore wind is the most efficient means of achieving this.
“The project will also deliver significant investment in the area in the form of the Community Benefit Fund and rates, which will provide funding for local initiatives and activities.
“As the project progresses we’ll be working closely with local residents and the wider community in East Clare, and the County Council, to keep them updated and informed on how Lackareagh Wind Farm will benefit the local area.”