Public Consultation on Gaoth Dobhair Photovoltaic Project
5mw renewable energy project to be developed for the benefit of the community
Údarás na Gaeltachta in conjuction with community development committees / organisations in Gaoth Dobhair are examining the possibility of developing a 5 MW photovoltaic park on an Údarás site on the edge of the Gaoth Dobhair Business Park.
Utilising renewable solar energy, this development would greatly enhance the local community economy and would provide a source of income for the community development sector not to mention its impact on lowering Gaoth Dobhair Business Park’s carbon footprint while ensuring the park is self-sustainable and energy efficient.
Údarás na Gaeltachta commissioned a feasibility study in 2020 to assess the suitability of an Údarás-owned site adjacent to Páirc Ghnó Ghaoth Dobhair (Gaoth Dobhair Business Park) for installation of a solar PV energy project as a means of reducing the Park’s dependence on fossil fuel derived energy. The study yielded positive results and the decision was made to continue to work on the concept in conjuction with the area’s community development organisations.
Public Consultation
It is intended to undertake a public consultation process on the project as part of the preliminary work involved in advance of submitting an application for planning permission. A public information / consultation event will be held in Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair on Thursday, February 10 from 2.00p.m. until 8.00p.m. Project plans / maps will be displayed for public viewing in the café area of the Amharclann and representatives from the Údarás appointed planning consultants, Tobin Consulting Engineers, will attend to share information and to answer questions regarding the project.
All members of the public are invited to this public information / consultation event.
The community organisations involved in the development of this project are:
- Comharchumann Forbartha Ghaoth Dobhair
- Coiste Forbartha Dobhair
- Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair
- Coiste Forbartha Cnoc Fola
- Coiste Forbartha Dhún Luiche
- Ionad Cois Locha, Dún Luiche
The concept of a “Green Gaeltacht” which emphasises the viability and sustainability of Gaeltacht communities is identified as a strategic goal in Údarás na Gaeltachta’s Strategy 2021-2025.