Concerns over influx of solar farms in rural Waterford
Cllr Seanie Power questioned the merits behind placing solar panels on quality agricultural land in the Comeragh area.
An increase in solar farm planning applications across rural Waterford has led councillors to demand the introduction of national planning guidelines.
Currently, there are no national guidelines on solar farm development, meaning that planning for solar projects are assessed within the context of individual planning applications submitted to local authorities.
At this week’s meeting of the Comeragh District Council, Cllr Declan Clune proposed a motion calling on Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, John Cummins TD, to publish without delay specific national guidelines for solar farm planning and development.
Explaining the importance of introducing a nationally recognised set of guidelines, Cllr Clune said, “We need specific guidelines, otherwise it’s very difficult to deal with the applications we receive in a consistent manner.”
Upon introducing the motion to the floor of the council chamber, elected members expressed concerns regarding the influx of solar farm applications being submitted in the area.
Cllr Seanie Power questioned the merits behind placing panels on quality agricultural land in the Comeragh area.
Cathaoirleach of the District, Cllr John O’Leary, added, “I’m getting concerned because the rate of applications coming forward for solar farms is unbelievable.
“I’m concerned that eventually food security will be an issue in this country because no one will be growing anything. I’m amazed there are not already proper guidelines in place."
Cllr Liam Brazil added that not having national guidelines makes it “very hard on the planning departments of every council in the country”.
He added: "Nobody wants wind turbines, nobody wants solar panels, shove them out to sea and leave them work from there.”
In the past week, two separate planning applications have been lodged for solar farms in the Comeragh area.
Cullenagh Solar Farm Limited submitted an application for a 43-hectare solar development across six townlands.
In Kilmeaden, a solar farm is part of the wider plans to redevelop the former Cheese Factory. Over 43,000 panels are planned at the site.
Meanwhile, a large-scale solar farm in Clonea-Power is currently under judicial review following strong opposition from locals.
