Project Overview
In line with ongoing company strategy, Bord na Móna is proposing to develop a wind farm within Garryhinch Bog located in Counties Laois and Offaly. The proposed development will be known as Garryhinch Wind Farm.
To view the Project Information Booklet, please click here.
How many turbines are proposed for the development?
Resulting from the development of the draft wind turbine layout there are 12 turbines proposed for the Garryhinch Wind Farm project.
To view the Draft Wind Turbine Layout Map, please click here
What height are the proposed turbines?
The proposed turbines will have an overall blade tip height ranging from 200 - 220 metres.
What setback distance has been applied from houses?
The turbine layout has been designed with a minimum setback distance of 4 times the tip height - 880 metres to the nearest house.
When will a planning application be lodged?
It is envisaged that a planning application will be lodged in mid 2023 for the proposed development. It is intended to submit the planning permission application directly to An Bord Pleanála, under the provisions of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006. An initial approach is therefore being made to An Bord Pleanála seeking a determination in relation to the Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) status, or otherwise, of the proposed wind farm development.
What land area will the proposed wind farm occupy?
Only approximately 4% of this area will be used for turbine bases, crane hard-standings and access tracks, so much of the land area will not be required by the development. This means that it can be utilised for other purposes, such as biodiversity and amenity.
Where will the power from the proposed wind farm go?
The electricity generated by the turbines will be transmitted directly onto Ireland’s National Grid which is managed by EirGrid for distribution around the country. The proposed development will make a significant contribution to Irelands Climate Action Plan 2021, which has a set a target of 8GW of onshore wind capacity by 2030.
What stage is the project at now?
The project team is conducting a number of onsite surveys including ecology surveys and ornithology surveys. Further ecological surveys, aquatic surveys, heritage surveys and site investigation works will be undertaken over the course of the next few months. In addition to these ongoing site works, we are also looking to consult with the community on the draft wind turbine layout.