Hiskinstown Solar Farm

Hiskinstown Solar Farm

An application for a 10‑year planning permission was submitted to Westmeath County Council in May 2025 for the development of a solar energy project across approximately 157 hectares of lands in the townlands of Hiskinstown, Ballygillin, Ballynacor, Stonestown, Corbetstown, Higginstown, Sionhill, Hodgestown, Dardistown, Graffanstown, Reynella, Balrath East, Chanonstown and Clonlost, Co. Westmeath.

What we could achieve at Hiskinstown

32,000

Homes powered

45,000

Tonnes of CO2

2M

Trees Equivalent

Project Information

The proposed development will include:

• Photovoltaic solar panels mounted on steel frames
• Electrical transformer stations
• Underground electrical and communication cabling within the project lands, adjoining private lands, and sections of the L1501, L1505, L5610, L5611, and L5614 public roads
• A containerised battery energy storage facility
• Upgrade of four existing entrances and creation of one new site entrance
• Internal access tracks
• Four temporary construction compounds
• Security fencing, gates and pole‑mounted CCTV cameras
• All associated and ancillary infrastructure, landscaping and reinstatement works

A comprehensive programme of hedgerow re‑planting, ecological enhancement and biodiversity measures will also form part of the development design.

Once operational, the solar farm will supply clean, renewable electricity to the national grid, supporting Ireland’s climate and energy targets. The project is expected to participate in a future Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction.

More details about the proposal can be viewed by visiting our Virtual Consultation Room at the link below.

Project Timeline

The planning application for the Hiskinstown Solar Farm was submitted to Westmeath County Council in May 2025. Subject to approval, the permission will allow for a construction period and full build‑out over a 10‑year timeframe.

More detailed information on the planning process can be found in the Application Process section below.

Project Sitemap

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

Hiskinstown Location in Westmeath

Hiskinstown Red Line Boundary

Hiskinstown Design

The planning application for the solar farm development was submitted in May 2025 to Westmeath County Council, under Section 34 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). A 10-year permission is being sought.

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).

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.

At Hiskinstown Solar Farm, 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 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.

How does CBF support communities?

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.

How is CBF governed?

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.

How does it work?

The Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is designed to support local communities located near RESS‑supported solar farm projects. The process is transparent, structured and aligned with national guidelines for community funding.

Here’s how the CBF process works from start to finish:

1. Appoint Administrator

The developer first appoints an independent Fund Administrator to oversee the process. This step ensures governance and compliance from the start.

2. Create the Fund Committee

Next, a Committee is formed. It includes community representatives, the developer and the administrator. As a result, local voices are part of every decision.

3. Scope the Area and Collaborate

The Committee then identifies community needs, meets local groups and gathers insights. This collaboration helps shape meaningful funding priorities.

4. Develop the Fund Strategy

After scoping, the Committee sets the fund’s strategy, eligibility criteria and objectives. This creates a clear roadmap for the funding round.

5. Set Up the Application Hub

The administrator promotes the fund across local channels. This makes the process simple and accessible.

6. Advertise the Fund

The fund is then advertised across local channels so all eligible groups are aware and encouraged to apply.

7. Application Process

Community groups submit their funding applications through the online portal. This step begins the formal review.

8. Review and Assessment

The Committee reviews every application using agreed criteria. As a result, all decisions remain fair, consistent, and transparent.

9. Agree and Award Grants

Approved projects receive funding based on impact, alignment with community needs and available budget.

10. Fund Administration and Reporting

Finally, the administrator manages payments and reporting, while funded groups deliver their projects and submit progress updates.

This step‑by‑step process ensures that funding is fair, transparent and impactful, supporting long‑term community wellbeing and projects aligned with Ireland’s renewable energy goals.

The proposed Kilcandra Solar Farm 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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