Question 1

What is solar energy?

Accepted Answer

Solar energy is a type of renewable energy that converts sunlight into a useable energy in the form of electricity.

Question 2

How does a solar development work?

Accepted Answer

Solar developments, sometimes referred to as 'solar farms', are a type of renewable energy project that is designed to supply power to homes and businesses. When the sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, electrons in the solar panel cells collide and generate a current. The current can then be transformed and transferred to the electricity grid, supplying power to customers.

Question 3

What makes this site qualify for solar energy?

Accepted Answer

Unlike solar panels installed on private dwellings, solar developments must connect to nearby energy infrastructure so that the power they generate can be supplied to the grid and subsequently distributed.

The proposed location has been selected for its strong solar resource, natural woodland screening and fields that will act as buffer zones to screen the low-lying solar array panels.

Solar sites must meet statutory regulations and be developed in accordance with all applicable permitting requirements.

Question 4

Will I be able to see the solar farm?

Accepted Answer

In general, solar panels are no more than 12 feet and low-lying. For BNRG Maganey, the local topography, combined with hedgerows, buffer zones, solar panel set-backs from public roads and new planting and fencing, will help screen the solar array panels.

Question 5

Why are solar energy systems important for communities?

Accepted Answer

Solar energy provides electricity to homes and businesses using only the sun's rays. This renewable energy does not use fossil fuels, is a quiet neighbour to nearby farms, fields and homes, and does not generate emissions, traffic, or odour.

Solar energy is a cost-effective, clean green energy source. Ireland has set a target of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Solar energy is projected to be a major contributor to this target. BNRG Maganey will help meet these national targets by delivering 105MW* of clean solar energy.

*Estimate only

Question 6

Will the solar farm affect the local wildlife and habitats?

Accepted Answer

BNRG Maganey is committed to protecting the local environment. A wide range of assessments and surveys will identify areas of conservation and inform the design of the solar farm. This will include a Biodiversity Enhancement Management Plan that will survey aquatics, mammals, birds and habitats. We will ensure this solar farm supports biodiversity and wildlife during its operation. Hedgerows and planting will provide shelter and ensure a wildlife pathway corridor will be protected.

Solar farms often provide shelter to wildlife, whilst land will be suitable for continued agricultural use, primarily as grazing land for sheep.

Question 7

How will you protect the local heritage and architecture?

Accepted Answer

Kildare in a respected and important historical area. With a focus on preserving local heritage, an Archaeology Impact Assessment will survey historical sites of interest. This will include in-depth research and archaeological experts on site. Archaeological geophysical surveys will also take place. Local heritage and archaeological features will be mapped, and generous mitigations put in place across both sites as necessary based on the National Monuments Service Zones of Notification.

Question 8

How will construction and traffic be managed during the build?

Accepted Answer

As the solar panels are located on private lands, there will be minimal disruption during the up to 12 month build, with limited heavy construction time and access to local houses, farms and businesses maintained. Site-specific Traffic Management Plans will be finalised prior to planning and construction commencing, to ensure that steady traffic flow can continue throughout all phases of the solar development.

Our Community Liaison Officer David Linnane will be available to respond to any queries during the construction phase.

About the Project

BNRG Maganey is a 105MW* solar farm in the rural County Kildare near the townlands of Beaconstown, Johnstown North & South, Kilkea Upper and Crooket.

Project Overview

Location