Solar energy is a type of renewable energy that converts sunlight into a usable energy in the form of electricity.

Solar developments, sometimes referred to as ‘solar farms’, are a type of renewable energy project designed to supply power to homes and businesses. When the sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, electrons in the solar panel cells collide and generate a current. This current can then be transformed and transferred to the electricity grid, supplying power to customers.

Unlike solar panels installed on private dwellings, solar developments must connect to nearby energy infrastructure so that the power they generate can be supplied to the grid and subsequently distributed.

BNRG Bracklone has been carefully selected as a site suitable for solar development. Sitting on 52 hectares of rural, low-lying and sheltered land, it is strategically located near the national grid and new EirGrid Bracklone 110kV substation. Low-lying solar panels will be bordered by enhanced hedgerows and surrounding fields that act as buffer zones.

Solar sites must meet statutory regulations and be developed in accordance with all applicable planning requirements.

In general, solar panels are approximately 10-15 feet and low-lying. For BNRG Bracklone, the local topography, combined with hedgerows, buffer zones, solar panel set-backs from public roads and new planting and fencing, will help screen the solar array panels.

Solar energy provides electricity to homes and businesses using only the sun's rays. This renewable energy does not use fossil fuels, is a quiet neighbour to nearby farms, fields, and homes, and does not generate emissions, traffic, or odour.

Solar energy is a cost-effective, clean green energy source. Ireland has set a target of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Solar energy is projected to be a major contributor to this target. BNRG Bracklone will help meet these national targets by delivering 32MW of clean solar energy.

BNRG Bracklone is committed to protecting the local environment. A range of assessments and surveys will identify areas of conservation and inform the design of the solar farm. We will ensure that this solar farm supports biodiversity and wildlife during its operation. Solar farms often provide shelter to wildlife, whilst sheep and medium-sized livestock grazing may take place on the land.

Kildare and Laois are important historical areas. With a focus on preserving local heritage, an Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Assessment will survey historical sites of interest. Across both sites, all local heritage and archaeological features will be mapped and mitigations put in place, as necessary. In the pre-construction phase, an archaeologist will also be on site to carry out a full assessment of the potential impacts of the development.

As the solar panels are located on private lands, there will be minimal disruption during the 12-month build, with limited heavy construction time and access to local houses, farms and businesses maintained. A comprehensive Traffic Management Plan will be submitted as part of the planning process to ensure that steady traffic flow can continue throughout the construction phase of the solar development.

Our Community Liaison Officer David Linnane will be available to respond to any queries during the construction phase.