Neoen Renewables has received approval from An Bord Pleanala for an 55MW solar farm in County Carlow.

The developer has been granted planning permission for a solar farm on land at Baungephlure and Friarstown, Killerig, Co. Carlow, roughly 6km to the east of Carlow Town.

The solar farm will consist of ground mounted photovoltaic solar panels, along with associated inverters and power stations, a containerised battery storage facility, the creation of a new access point, and site boundary and security works.

The four main areas which make up the 77ha site consist of fields which are in use for tillage.

Carlow County Council granted permission for the solar farm in October 2023, though this was appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

The development was approved for construction within 10 years, and a permitted operational lifespan of 35 years.

In a submission in response to the appeal, the developer stated that the land will remain in agricultural use during this time for grazing purposes.

Planning approval for the solar farm was granted by An Bord Pleanála with 18 revised conditions attached on its development and operation.