Local Independent Councillor Geraldine Donohue has called on the ESB to clarify its plans in relation to the future of its Derrybrien Wind Farm and infrastructure.
Cllr Donohue said that there has been a long and protracted dispute over the project which all parties involved need to get over and the issues resolved.
“The country is facing an energy crisis, the Russian - Ukraine situation has impacted on the flow and cost of fuel internationally,” she said.”
“The reality is that renewable energy is being promoted by the coalition Government of which Wind Energy is part of their strategy.”
Councillor Donohue said that lessons had to be learned from the way the ESB conducted itself and failed to address aspects of the planning and environmental process in relation to Derrybrien.
“But the reality is that there is now major infrastructure up and in place at Derrybrien, which will either have to be taken down or put to use. Given the move to renewable energy there may very well be a role for Derrybrien subject to strict scrutiny and conditions.
“Councillor Donohue said she was surprised to learn this week from ESB that “Gort Windfarms Limited a subsidiary of ESB and owner of Derrybrien wind farm have temporarily ceased commercial operation of the wind farm due to the ABP decision referred to below. So there is currently no renewable energy exported onto the grid from Derrybrien at this time.”
Cllr Donohue said a solution has to be reached and has called on the ESB to engage with Galway County Council and An Bord Pleanala and the community to see what solutions can be found for the Derrybrien.
“Standing Still is simply not an option,” she said.
A solidarity event organised yesterday (Wednesday ) by the Irish Georgian Chamber of Commerce together with School Bhride, Shantalla resulted in a huge number of donations including food, clothing, toys and other essential products which will be used for Ukrainian refugees travelling to Ireland. The organisers would like to thank all who donated.
A solidarity event organised yesterday (Wednesday ) by the Irish Georgian Chamber of Commerce together with School Bhride, Shantalla resulted in a huge number of donations including food, clothing, toys and other essential products which will be used for Ukrainian refugees travelling to Ireland. The organisers would like to thank all who donated.
