Eighty-two renewable energy projects have been given the green light, following the first Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS ) auction, including the Claremorris Solar PV Farm - the first of its kind in Mayo.
The scheme is also the first of its kind to be led by the Irish Government and will allocate over €1.5 billion while aiming to create one thousand jobs.
The financial support will typically last for approximately 15 years for each successful application. Claremorris Solar PV Farm and six other successful applicants are community-led, which Minister for Climate Action Eamon Ryan said will be supported, “to produce their own power and share in the ownership of Ireland’s energy revolution, while inspiring others to follow”.
Mayo County Council has welcomed the decision by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment to approve the Claremorris Solar Park as a successful project in the first Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS ) auction.
Peter Duggan, Chief Executive (Interim ) of Mayo County Council, stated: "We are delighted to have received the green light from the Department. We and Claremorris and Western District Energy Co-operative will work together with community stakeholders on the MW Solar PV Farm in Claremorris.
"This project not only rehabilitates a former landfill site, it also supports community involvement in replacing fossil fuels for our future energy requirements; one more step in Mayo County Council’s effort to tackle the challenge of Climate Change.”
Richard Finn, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, added: "As Chairman of Mayo County Council, I wish to welcome the grant of planning for Claremorris Solar Park by Mayo County Council. I wish to compliment everyone at Claremorris and Western District Energy CO-OP for the years of effort put into this project.
"I also want to express my thanks to the management and staff of Mayo County Council for their patience and co-operation in this matter.
"Two solar farms are now in the offing for Claremorris. This makes Claremorris a leader in the country in the provision of green energy and other green energy projects are in the pipeline by the Claremorris CO-OP."
