Major windfarm work to start

Work at the site of the Derringlough windfarm project is to begin this month.

Bord na Móna was granted planning permission for the windfarm in August 2021.

The proposed windfarm covers 34.2 hectares across a number of townlands. The site is located approximately 2km south of of Cloghan, 3.4km east of Banagher and 2.5km north of Fivealley.

The proposal is for 21 wind turbines with an overall blade tip height of 185m (comprising maximum hub height of 110 metres and maximum rotor radius of 75 metres). The turbines are to be arranged in two clusters.

The company said pre-construction works will get underway during June. It said it would take 24 to 30 months from starting onsite to commissioning of the windfarm.

The company said, since it received planning approval, the project team has been working to progress the project to the next stage and intends to commence pre-construction works on site in June.

These works will include establishment and maintenance of the site compound, construction of new access tracks, substation hardstand and compound and the construction of bell mouths at entrances, of passing bay and amenity car park.

It is estimated that up to 120 construction jobs will be created.

Derrinlough windfarm will be capable of producing electricity to power the equivalent of approximately 68,000 households every year.

Bord na Móna said the successful development of the wind farm will provide “an enduring economic benefit to the communities surrounding the proposed project”.

It cited the extensive amenity plans and linkage with other amenity facilities and attractions in the region, the community benefit programme for residents and community groups, employment during the construction and operation, the purchase of materials for the construction of the project and through the annual rates payable to the local authority.