A renewable energy company has failed to overturn Westmeath County Council's decision to refuse permission for a major solar farm project. Neoen Renewable's Ireland Limited had sought permission to construct a solar energy development across 87 hectares around Crookedwood in Westmeath. Plans had called for the photovoltaic solar panels on steel mounting frames, electrical power stations and underground electrical and communications cabling. Also contained in the application was a containerised battery energy storage facility and a proposed operating lifetime of 35 years.
The process was the subject of a number of public submissions against the solar farms, with locals highlighting their concerns over the effect it could have on biodiversity and the visual amenity. Westmeath County Council refused the planning permission, stating that the development would contravene the Westmeath Development plan.
Neoen Renewable's Ireland Limited appealed the refusal to An Bord Pleanála, with the higher planning authority this week upholding the council's decision. According to An Bord Pleanala's decision, the information submitted with the appeal was not enough to refute the finding from Westmeath County Council that the development would have a significant effect on local water quality.
