Co Wicklow Wind Project Receives Green Light

Business & Finance - Construction & Property

Monday, 04 October 2010 12:18

Written by Noel Cotter

Coillte and ESB Wind Development have announced that planning permission has been granted for their joint initiative to develop a 27.5 megawatt wind farm at Raheenleagh in Co. Wicklow.

Coillte and ESB Wind Development each have a 50% share in the Raheenleagh Wind Energy Project which will comprise 11 turbines, each generating approximately 2.5MW. It is anticipated that the wind farm will generate the equivalent of 17,000 homes' annual electricity consumption.

Commenting on the announcement, David Gunning, Chief Executive of Coillte said: "We're delighted to get another wind farm project underway. We have a further five projects to submit for planning this year and two more in 2011. As the country's largest landowner, Coillte is in a unique position to deliver strategic projects of this nature, working with a number of significant partners, including ESB. Projects like these are also helping Ireland meet national policy and renewable energy objectives."

ESB Chief Executive, Padraig McManus said: "The development of this wind farm at Raheenleagh indicates ESB's commitment to investment in renewables and is another step in transforming ESB into a carbon neutral company. We look forward to continuing our excellent working relationship with Coillte through the development of this project."