Expansion of existing solar farm with additional PV arrays and electrical infrastructure

The Planning Application is subject to Section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Article 16(2) of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive 2023/2413) i.e. Completeness Check. Permission for amendments to previously permitted solar PV farm (RCC Pl. Ref. PD/21/350), within the townland of Taduff East, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The proposed development will comprise of: • The addition of solar PV arrays on ground mounted steel frames, with a maximum overall height of 3m, over an area of c. 1.98ha; •1 no. transformer/inverter station; • Internal underground electrical cabling and ducting between the solar PV arrays and inverter/transformer station; • And all associated ancillary site development works and services, including security fencing; • The decommissioning and reinstatement of the solar farm at the end of its operational life. Planning permission is sought for a period of 10 years with an operational life of 30 years from the date of commissioning. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) accompanies this Planning Application. The NIS assesses the construction and operation of the proposed development, as well as the integral elements of the wider project infrastructure of the consented TDC Community Solar Park (RCC Pl. Ref. PD/21/350), comprising solar PV arrays, inverter and transformer stations, underground cabling and ducting, temporary construction compound, fencing, CCTV, access tracks, site drainage and landscaping, all of which are essential infrastructure associated with the operation of the proposed development. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413). The planning application is subject to Section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with Section 34D(b), the provisions of Article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply. The proposed development is within the townland of