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Hallstown Solar and BESS

A 10 year planning permission the construction of a solar PV energy development associated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facility with an operational life of 40 years on lands totalling approximately 36.3 hectares within the townlands of Kilbrew and Loughlinstown, Co. Meath. The development will consist of the installation of approximately 208,600 sq. m. of photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames and associated ancillary development including 3 no. transformer stations, string-inverters attached to panel frames, 25 no. CCTV security cameras mounted on 4 metre high poles, deer-proof perimeter security fencing (2 metres high) raised 200mm to allow for the movement of small mammals and gates; a BESS facility comprising an electrical compound, 180 no. battery storage units, electrical transformer/inverter station modules, 45 no. transformers, 3 no. storage containers, 3 no. 33 kV switch gear rooms, 1 no. control room building, 1 no. water tank, 1 no. underground fire water containment tank, a surface water infiltration area and 7 no. CCTV cameras enclosed with 2.5 metre high security fencing; the creation of a new access on L50161 public road to facilitate construction and operational phase access; internal access tracks between the solar arrays and the site entrance; a temporary construction compound; and all ancillary development works including landscaping and underground cable to connect the proposed transformer stations to a proposed 110kv substation with electrical control building and associated compound the subject of a separate planning permission under the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006.

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An overview map showing the project boundaries and key local roads for context.

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Application Process

Environmental survey data was collected on-site and used to directly inform and guide the project design. The design of the proposed solar farm has been revised in response to feedback from Westmeath County Council and will be further refined for public submissions to ensure it aligns with the needs and concerns of the local community.

Supporting Information

A Planning and Environmental Considerations Report was prepared and submitted with the application. This includes:

  • Population
  • Biodiversity
  • Water
  • Noise
  • Landscape and Visual
  • Cultural Heritage
  • Traffic and Transport
  • AA Screening/Natura Impact Statement 

A Glint and Glare Assessment, Landscape Management Plan and a Flood Risk Assessment was submitted as part of the planning application, along with a Construction Environmental Management Plan (which will be fully finalised before any construction work takes place).

At Hallstown Solar and BESS, 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.

Can the land be used for agriculture?

Yes. There is enough space below and around the panel arrays to enable grazing by small farm animals such as sheep.

There is low-level noise from inverters and transformers when the solar farm is producing energy. The locations of these are carefully selected to ensure that they are not close to houses. From the boundary of the solar farm, any noise will be less than background noise from traffic or wind.

Construction typically takes 12 months.

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.
Solar panels are coated with an anti-reflective material to maximise light absorption. Although there still may be some glare from the panels, it is significantly less than that from standard glass. The arrays are designed and positioned on the site to minimise any potential visual impact on surrounding properties and the landscape.
The solar farm site will be enclosed by 2 metre high fencing and existing hedgerows where they are present. The site will be monitored by CCTV cameras directed into the site. Land outside of the site will not be monitored so privacy will not be compromised.

Solar farm developments incorporate biodiversity areas, landscape buffers and new and enhanced hedgerow planting that provide habitats for a variety of wildlife such as birds, insects and mammals. Panel arrays provide shade and shelter and vegetation within the site nurtures the soil and attracts insects.

Solar farms generally have an operational life of around 40 years. The planning permission usually requires that at the end of that period the arrays and other equipment is removed, and the site restored to its original condition and use in accordance with the detailed restoration/decommissioning plan. Solar panels can be recycled and valuable materials such as silicon and aluminium recovered.
The issue of whether the presence of a utility scale solar farm development has an affect on property values has been considered by planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála on many planning applications and they have been found that this is not the case
The issue of whether the presence of a utility scale solar farm development has an affect on property values has been considered by planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála on many planning applications and they have been found that this is not the case
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
BESS facilities are normally unmanned and monitored remotely. Maintenance visits take place periodically as required.
Yes. BESS projects are designed and operated in line with international safety standards. Safety systems, monitoring, and operational procedures are built into the design.
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.
Yes. Emergency access, site layout, and safety measures are considered during the design and planning stages, with input from relevant stakeholders where appropriate.
Environmental impacts such as ecology, drainage, noise, and landscape are assessed as part of the planning application, supported by specialist studies where required.
Any proposed lighting is assessed through planning and designed to minimise light spill and impact on nearby properties and the surrounding environment.
The project connects to the electricity network via underground cables, usually linking into an existing substation.
Where possible, grid connections are designed using underground cables and existing infrastructure. Any required works are described in the planning application.
BESS projects are designed for a defined operational lifespan, typically several decades.
At the end of its operational life, the equipment can be removed and the site decommissioned and restored in accordance with approved plan
Public feedback is welcomed. Community consultation helps inform the project design before a planning application is submitted.
Details on how to provide feedback or contact the project team are available on the project website or consultation materials.

What is Community Benefit Fund

A Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is a government‑mandated fund linked to RESS (Renewable Electricity Support Scheme) solar projects. These funds provide long‑term financial support to communities located near renewable energy developments.

What is the purpose of CBF?

Every RESS‑supported solar project contributes to a CBF at a minimum rate of €2 per MWh of electricity generated. Because this contribution continues for 15 years, communities receive predictable, stable support throughout the operational life of the project.

Funding continues for 15 years from the project’s commercial operation date, creating stable and predictable support for local communities. The fund supports local community projects, prioritising not‑for‑profit organisations and initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
A Community Benefit Fund Committee – made up of community representatives, the developer, and the fund administrator – manages the fund and ensures transparency, governance and collaboration.
Who is involved
Developer
  • Develops and delivers the project
  • Appoints the Fund Administrator
  • Reports annually on outcomes
  • Oversees overall governance
Administrator
  • Supports the Fund Committee
  • Develops the funding strategy
  • Implements committee decisions
  • Ensures governance compliance
Community
  • Provides volunteers for committees
  • Submits funding applications
  • Delivers approved local projects
  • Benefits from funded activity
Fund Committee
  • Includes Developer, Administrator and Community representatives
  • Sets funding goals and strategy
  • Reviews and approves applications
  • Operates under RESS governance

The proposed Hallstown Solar and BESS will benefit from ongoing participation by interested parties at every stage of development. If you would like to comment or request more information, please complete the contact form below. A member of our team will respond as soon as possible.

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