Bord na Mona has unveiled plans for a 200MW-plus hybrid energy park in the Irish midlands.
The semi-state developer wants to build a wind farm, solar array, energy storage and green hydrogen production facility on 3000 hectares of land in Meath, Offaly and Westmeath.
BnM expects that the energy park will be attractive for industrial and high-demand energy users such as large scale distribution facilities and data centres.
It said the co-located approach is more sustainable, has lower environmental impact and a more optimal use of grid assets.
The project will facilitate the reduction of energy costs and carbon emissions while guaranteeing a secure and reliable source of power for users, added the semi-state.
The availability of a 400, 220 and 110 kV grid network within or adjacent to landbank will reduce set-up costs and eliminates the need for significant grid extension work.
Bord na Móna expect to lodge a planning application for the new Energy Park in the next 18 to 24 months.
Consultation with the local communities is commencing this week and will take place in the coming months with community information sessions planned for early 2022 for communities adjacent to the site.
Chief Executive Tom Donnellan said: “As a climate solutions company, Bord na Móna is helping to contribute to a net zero future by embracing new approaches to how we generate and consume energy.
“The proposed Bord na Móna Energy Park brings with it a whole range of solutions in this area. It will reduce Ireland’s reliance on national grid infrastructure and will increase self-sufficiency and energy security in the country while meeting the needs of the national and regional economies.
“The climate emergency is the greatest challenge we face today, and the Bord na Móna Energy Park is another important step to creating a more sustainable future for Ireland.”