Moyvilla Solar Farm

Moyvilla Solar Farm

Moyvilla Solar Farm is a proposed renewable energy development by Robin Solar Ltd, located on approximately 36.82 hectares of agricultural land in the townland of Bushfield, Co. Galway.

The project will generate up to 12 MW of clean electricity, connecting to the national grid through an underground cable to the Shantallow–Moyveela 110 kV substation.

Designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, Moyvilla Solar Farm will help reduce carbon emissions, support Ireland’s renewable energy targets, and deliver long-term environmental and community benefits.

What we could achieve at Moyvilla

8,000

Homes powered

11,000

Tonnes of CO2

500k

Tree planting 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.

Solar Farm Infrastructure

The development will comprise of:

• Approx. 235,900 m² of PV panels on steel frames
• 7 inverter/transformer stations
• Internal tracks, underground cabling & boundary fencing
• Landscaping, biodiversity areas & boundary treatments
• 110 kV underground cable (via the R446)
• Connection to Shantallow–Moyveela 110 kV substation

Benefits from this project

The Moyvilla Solar Farm will bring lasting value to the local area and beyond:

• Local job creation – Employment during construction and ongoing operations.
• Lower carbon footprint – Helping to cut CO₂ emissions by around 11,000 tonnes each year.
• Enhancing biodiversity – Retaining and improving hedgerows, with new planting and habitat areas.
• 
  Enhancing biodiversity – Retaining and improving hedgerows, with new planting and habitat areas.
• Commitment to sustainability – See our ESG Report for more progress and goals

Project Timeline

The planning application for the Moyvilla Solar Farm was submitted to the local authority as part of the project’s development process. Subject to approval, the permission will allow for a phased construction period and full build‑out over a multi‑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.

The planning application for the solar farm development was submitted. 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 Moyvilla 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. Click below to know more about the process.

We welcome any questions or feedback regarding the Moyvilla Solar Farm. Please complete the form below and a member of our team will respond as soon as possible.

Get in touch

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