SSE Renewables and FuturEnergy Ireland have begun pre-construction works ahead of full construction of the 58MW Drumnahough Wind Farm in County Donegal.
The €120m project will comprise 12 turbines, an on-site substation and access roads across upland townlands near Treankeel, Meenadaura, Carrickalangan and Cark, around 13km from Letterkenny.
Drumnahough is being co-developed by SSE Renewables and FuturEnergy Ireland, with SSE leading delivery, and sits close to the partners’ Lenalea Wind Farm, as well as SSE’s operational Culliagh and Meentycat projects.
Once operational, the wind farm will take Ireland a step closer to its 2030 renewables and decarbonisation targets while supporting national security of supply objectives.
Construction will support about 60 direct and indirect jobs at peak, with local contractors and suppliers in Donegal and the wider North West to be used where possible.
Over its lifetime, Drumnahough will contribute millions of euro in commercial rates to Donegal County Council to support local services and infrastructure.
The project will also establish a substantial community benefit fund, to be designed with local stakeholders and targeted at community development, energy efficiency, climate action and wider regional initiatives.
Heather Donald, director of onshore wind, solar and battery (GB and Ireland) at SSE Renewables, said: “We’re delighted to be announcing that Drumnahough Wind Farm will be entering construction shortly.
“Delivery of this project is the next critical step we’re taking at SSE with our co-development partners FuturEnergy Ireland to turn Ireland’s ambitions for climate action and energy security into reality.
“We look forward to working closely with our supply chain partners and key contractors to safely and efficiently deliver this vital new wind farm.
“And in doing so, we plan to deliver an important boost to Donegal’s economy, local supply chain and communities, both during construction and when it enters operation.”
FuturEnergy Ireland delivery director Mary Lynch said: “The start of construction is a landmark moment for this project, which brings together the expertise of FuturEnergy Ireland and SSE.
“Drumnahough Wind Farm exemplifies how strategic collaboration can deliver meaningful progress in pursuit of Ireland’s climate and energy goals.
“This renewable energy project will also create tangible benefits for the local community and economy.
“From supporting jobs to investing in community initiatives through the community benefit fund, Drumnahough Wind Farm wants to create lasting positive legacy in Donegal.
“As we move into the construction phase, our top priorities are the safe and sustainable delivery of this project in close partnership with our contractors and suppliers, ensuring the local community remains informed and engaged throughout the process.”
Two public information events will be held at Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey, on 10 December and at Foxhall Community Hall, Newmills, Letterkenny, on 11 December, both running from 14:30 to 19:30.
A locally based community liaison officer, Seamus Herron, is available during construction via clo@sse.com, with further information on the project provided at sserenewables.com/drumnahough.