Major solar farm ‘dream’ is fading
The “dream” of a locally based large solar power generating development to serve thousands of homes and provide generous leasing income for the land owners is understood to have been abandoned.
Representatives of Circal extensively canvassed landowners in areas surrounding Newport and adjoining parishes over recent months, seeking interests to lease land for the project and are understood to have received commitment on a considerable acreage of land.
However, it is understood that all of the landowners who indicated interest or a commitment have now been contacted by a representative of the company to advise that they are not proceeding with the project at this time. A representative of the company and documentation supplied to land owners indicated that the farmers would be paid €159/acre on signing an option agreement and €100/acre each year up to the completion of planning for the lease.
The terms of the lease would provide payment of €1,400/ acre per year, index linked, for up to 40 years, following which the lease may be extended or the land returned to its original farming condition.
In the official brochure, Circal was described as being backed by Octopus Energy Generation, one of the leading and most experienced energy investors in Europe. The website 'wearecircal.com' says “Circal partners with landowners worldwide to develop solar and energy storage projects, with offices and portfolios in Ireland and the US”. It adds: “Our success stems from decades of experience, a thoughtful approach, and strong relationships with landowners and partners.”
“Heightened costs, volatile weather conditions and regulatory uncertainty mean farming incomes have become less predictable. Leasing land for solar farm development is a proven way for farmers to diversify income and realise a sustainable long-term solution for their land and families.”
The belief is that the construction of a power sub station at Mount Philips, which is currently underway to which supply from a number of wind power generating turbines will be connected, offered a distinct advantage. However, it is believed that the amount of suitable land for the solar project fell short of the required target to proceed with the development.
Circal did not respond to a number of contacts for comment on the discontinuing of the project in the area.
Ireland’s solar energy sector has grown rapidly, with 43 solar farms already grid-connected and generating electricity, and 125 additional sites contracted at various stages of planning or construction, total of around 1,781 MW of capacity
The government aims to deliver up to 8GW of solar electricity by 2030, reflecting a strong commitment to renewable energy expansion.