In April 2017, Bord na Móna and ESB announced a co-development agreement to develop solar power in four locations in Roscommon, Offaly and Kildare, which will provide renewable energy to power the equivalent of 150,000 homes per annum. As part of this agreement we have already secured consent for the first project, Timahoe North Solar Farm to be constructed in Co. Kildare.

Bord na Móna and ESB have a long track record of developing energy projects together, dating back to the development of the first generation of peat fired power stations. Renewable energy is a strategic growth area for both companies and is aligned with both corporate strategies that include reducing carbon emissions.

The co-development agreement assessed part of Bord na Móna’s land bank in strategic locations across the Midlands which is suitable for large scale solar energy projects and brings together the expertise of two leading commercial semistate companies in renewable energy with significant projects that support Ireland’s energy transition. Arising from the site selection process Blackwater Bog has been choosen for the proposed development of a solar farm in the area.

The proposed development of Blackwater Solar Farm will contribute to both Ireland’s and the European Union’s renewable energy targets. It will also contribute to increasing the security of Ireland’s energy supply and will facilitate a higher level of energy generation and self-sufficiency.