BayWa r.e. Secures Approval for 60-MWp Irish Solar Farm

• BayWa r.e. AG is set to illuminate County Tipperary with a groundbreaking 60 MWp solar farm, marking a significant milestone in Ireland's renewable energy journey.

German renewable energy firm BayWa r.e. AG has received approval to develop a 60 MWp solar project, the Springmount solar farm, in County Tipperary, Ireland. The project, set to be built on approximately 69 hectares (170.5 acres) west of Clonmel, has been approved by Ireland’s An Bord Pleanála and Tipperary County Council, marking BayWa's first successful project application in the country.

Moving forward, BayWa r.e. plans to apply for a grid connection, with expectations to secure an offer by 2025. Construction for the Springmount solar farm is projected to commence in 2026, with commissioning scheduled for 2027, as the company builds its pipeline of wind, solar, and energy storage projects in Ireland.

What are the key milestones and future plans for BayWa's Springmount solar farm in Ireland?

Here are the key milestones and future plans for BayWa's Springmount solar farm in Ireland:

- Project Approval:
- Received planning approval from An Bord Pleanála and Tipperary County Council, illustrating regulatory support for renewable energy initiatives in the region.

- Capacity and Site Details:
- The solar farm will have a total capacity of 60 MWp, signifying a substantial contribution to local renewable energy generation.
- The project will be developed on approximately 69 hectares (170.5 acres) of land west of Clonmel, strategically selected for optimal sunlight exposure and minimal environmental impact.

- Grid Connection Application:
- BayWa r.e. intends to apply for a grid connection, expected to facilitate the integration of the generated solar power into Ireland's energy infrastructure.
- An offer for this connection is anticipated by 2025, enabling the project to align with national energy supply requirements.

- Construction Timeline:
- Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, indicating a structured timeline to ensure the project progresses smoothly.
- This timeline has been designed to accommodate necessary preparations and regulatory compliance before any physical work starts.

- Commissioning and Operation:
- The solar farm is expected to be commissioned in 2027, at which point it will begin generating clean energy for the local and national grid.
- This marks a significant operational milestone for BayWa r.e. as they contribute to Ireland’s renewable energy goals.

- Strategic Development Goals:
- The Springmount solar project aligns with BayWa's broader strategy to expand its portfolio of renewable energy projects in Ireland, including wind and energy storage solutions.
- This project is part of an ambitious plan to support Ireland's commitment to achieving a low-carbon economy and increasing the share of renewables in its energy mix.

- Local Impact and Engagement:
- BayWa r.e. is expected to engage with local communities throughout the project's development to address concerns, share benefits, and foster support for renewable initiatives.
- The project is anticipated to create jobs during construction and promote local economic growth through sustainable energy practices.

- Future Prospects:
- Following the completion of Springmount, BayWa r.e. aims to explore further opportunities within Ireland's renewable sector, potentially leading to additional solar, wind, and energy storage projects.
- The success of this project may serve as a blueprint for future developments by the company in other regions, reinforcing their commitment to renewable energy expansion across Europe.