January – May 2025
We want to highlight a recent initiative by An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) to publish a list of the Renewable Energy (Wind and Solar) Decisions 2025 on its website. The most up-to-date list was published on the 9th of June 2025. The report provides a high-level summary of planning applications relating to renewable energy proposals (wind and solar) submitted to and decided by ACP, in the first five months of 2025. A total of 34 applications were lodged to or decided by ACP, between January and May 2025, including both Strategic Infrastructure Developments (SID) and Normal Planning Appeals (NPA).
Wind farm applications
Wind energy projects remain the most common application. The largest proposal was for a 132 MW, 22 WTG (Wind Turbine Generator) Wind Farm at Derryadd, Co. Longford (decision pending). Other significant wind projects include:
- Oweninney Phase 3, Co. Mayo (18 Wind Turbines, 90MW) – Granted
- Glenard, Co. Donegal (15 Wind Turbines, 93MW) – Granted (MKO led this application)
- Gortyrahilly, Co. Cork (14 Wind Turbines, 92.4 MW) – Granted
A total of 10 no. wind applications received grants by ACP, these include 5 no. SID-classified projects and 5 no. NPA projects. Collectively, these developments represent a potential generating capacity of 889MW to be added to the national grid and represent a significant contribution toward the Climate Action Plan 2024 target of 9,000 MW by 2030. In addition, 10 no. wind farm applications or appeals were submitted to ACP during that period. If approved, these projects could deliver a further 669MW. Of the 10 no. wind farm applications, it is noteworthy that 6 no. are remittal applications —cases directed by the courts to be returned for re-evaluation by ACP. These cases highlight the growing influence of judicial review in the renewable planning process, as legal appeals successfully challenge earlier decisions.
Solar farm applications
Solar farm applications accounted for a substantial portion of the overall activity. Multiple large-scale projects were granted permission by ACP, including:
- Batterstown (Co. Meath) – 190 MW (Max.)
- Bogganstown (Co. Meath) – 110 MW
- Castlegarden (Co. Kilkenny) – 64 MW
Solar proposals often face challenges, but where granted, they reflect a trend toward regional diversification of energy sources. In conclusion, the period from January to May 2025 demonstrates significant momentum in Ireland’s renewable energy sector. The publication by ACP of the report is a welcome information source and demonstrates ongoing progress in the development of renewable projects during the consenting stage.