Martinstown BESS
The development will consist of the construction of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) development on a site of approximately 0.53 hectares. It will comprise battery storage infrastructure, new access tracks, underground cabling, perimeter fencing with CCTV cameras and access gates, a temporary construction compound and all ancillary grid infrastructure and associated works. Access to the Application Site will be provided from an existing access point off the L8005 to the northeast of the Application Site. The development will have an operational capacity of up to 20-megawatt peak and is designed to have an operational lifetime of 35 years. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will accompany the planning application.
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) – Overview
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) stores electricity and supplies it back to the grid when it is needed. BESS helps support the electricity network by improving flexibility, reducing congestion, and supporting renewable energy such as solar and wind.
A BESS site is a compact, fenced facility made up of battery units, control equipment, and underground grid connections. Sites are carefully designed with safety, environmental protection, and landscaping in mind and are located close to existing electricity infrastructure where possible. All BESS projects are subject to the planning process and environmental assessment. They are designed for a defined operational lifespan and can be decommissioned and restored at the end of their use.
How Battery Energy Storage (BESS) Projects Benefit Communities and the Electricity Network
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) play an increasingly important role in supporting Ireland’s electricity network as demand for power continues to grow. BESS projects store electricity when it is available and release it back to the grid when it is needed most. This helps the electricity system operate more efficiently and reliably, particularly during periods of high demand or when renewable generation is variable.
- Supporting a Stronger Electricity Grid: BESS projects provide essential grid support services that help balance supply and demand. By responding quickly to changes on the network, battery storage can help manage congestion, support local electricity infrastructure, and improve overall grid resilience.
- Enabling Renewable Energy: Battery storage works alongside renewable energy projects such as solar and wind. By storing renewable electricity when production is high and releasing it when demand increases, BESS helps limit curtailment and makes better use of existing renewable generation.
- Improving Security of Supply: Energy storage provides flexible, dispatchable power that can support the grid at critical times. This contributes to a more reliable electricity system, helping to meet peak demand and support future growth in electricity use.
- Compact and Appropriate Development: BESS developments typically have a small physical footprint and are carefully located close to existing grid infrastructure, such as substations. This makes them well suited to a range of locations while minimising land take and visual impact.
- Temporary and Reversible Infrastructure: Battery projects are designed for a defined operational lifespan. At the end of this period, the equipment can be removed and the site decommissioned in accordance with approved plans.
- Consideration of Environment and Safety: All BESS projects are subject to detailed planning and environmental assessment. Design measures include landscaping, controlled access, and safety systems to ensure the development operates responsibly within its surroundings.
Project Sitemap
An overview map showing the project boundaries and key local roads for context.
Construction Environmental Management Plan (that will finalised and agreed with the County Council before any construction work takes place)
- Restoration/decommissioning plan
- Appropriate Assessment Screening Report /Natura Impact Statement
- Glint and Glare Assessment
- Landscape Management Plan
Supporting Information
The design of the BESS is directly informed and guided by extensive range of survey data collected from the site. The application will be accompanied by supporting information including: Planning and Environmental Considerations Report that examines the potential impacts of the solar farm in respect of:
- Population
- Biodiversity
- Water
- Noise
- Visual impact and impact on the landscape
- Cultural Heritage
- Traffic and Transport
Our goal is to deliver clean, renewable energy while creating lasting benefits for the local community and environment. By listening, sharing updates, and engaging openly, we can ensure the solar farm reflects local priorities and provides real value for everyone.
What is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) stores electricity and supplies it back to the electricity grid when it is needed. It helps balance supply and demand and supports the reliable operation of the electricity network.
Why is a BESS project needed?
Electricity demand in Ireland is increasing. BESS helps support the grid by improving flexibility, reducing congestion, and helping integrate renewable energy such as solar and wind.
Why has this location been chosen?
BESS projects are typically located close to existing electricity infrastructure, such as substations, to reduce the need for new grid infrastructure and minimise environmental impacts.
Will there be an increase in traffic?
During construction there will be some increase in traffic movements in the areas but the process will be managed through a Construction Traffic Management Plan that will be agreed with the County Council to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum. Once operational, there will be 1 or 2 maintenance visits per month using light goods vehicles.
Is the BESS linked to a solar or wind farm?
Some BESS projects are co‑located with renewable energy developments, while others operate independently to support the electricity grid. Details for each project are outlined in the project description.
What will the BESS site look like?
A BESS site is a compact, fenced facility containing battery units and associated equipment. Landscaping and screening are included to help the development integrate with its surroundings.
How big is a typical BESS site?
BESS sites usually cover a relatively small area compared to other types of infrastructure. The size depends on the project capacity and layout, which are provided as part of the planning application.
Will the BESS generate noise?
The site includes equipment such as cooling systems, which can generate noise. Noise assessments are carried out as part of the planning process to ensure acceptable levels are maintained.
Will there be traffic impacts?
During construction, there will be an increase in traffic for a limited period. Once operational, BESS sites generate very low traffic, typically limited to occasional maintenance visits.
Is a BESS site staffed?
BESS facilities are normally unmanned and monitored remotely. Maintenance visits take place periodically as required.
Is a BESS safe?
Yes. BESS projects are designed and operated in line with international safety standards. Safety systems, monitoring, and operational procedures are built into the design.
Is there a risk of fire?
Fire safety is a key consideration in BESS design. Fire risk and safety measures are assessed as part of the planning process, and designs are reviewed with relevant authorities where required.
Will emergency services be consulted?
Yes. Emergency access, site layout, and safety measures are considered during the design and planning stages, with input from relevant stakeholders where appropriate.
Will the project affect the environment?
Environmental impacts such as ecology, drainage, noise, and landscape are assessed as part of the planning application, supported by specialist studies where required.
Will there be lighting at night?
Any proposed lighting is assessed through planning and designed to minimise light spill and impact on nearby properties and the surrounding environment.
How does the BESS connect to the grid?
The project connects to the electricity network via underground cables, usually linking into an existing substation.
Will new overhead power lines be required?
Where possible, grid connections are designed using underground cables and existing infrastructure. Any required works are described in the planning application.
How long will the BESS operate?
BESS projects are designed for a defined operational lifespan, typically several decades.
What happens at the end of the project’s life?
At the end of its operational life, the equipment can be removed and the site decommissioned and restored in accordance with approved plan
Do I need to give feedback?
Public feedback is welcomed. Community consultation helps inform the project design before a planning application is submitted.
How can I make a comment or ask a question?
Details on how to provide feedback or contact the project team are available on the project website or consultation materials.
We welcome any questions or feedback regarding the Martinstown BESS. Please complete the form below and a member of our team will respond as soon as possible.
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