Grid connection
To ensure the power generated by the wind farm feeds into the national grid, a physical connection is required between the proposed Knockshanvo Wind Farm substation and the existing ESB Ardnacrusha 110kV GIS substation, approximately 8.7km from the wind farm development.
The connection method involves an underground cable that runs primarily underneath the roadways, diverting from the road when there are technical merits to do so.
We wish to keep all homeowners, stakeholders and communities located along the potential route and within the surrounds of the project up to date.
Our Community Liaison Officers are available to answer queries and receive feedback. Feedback received will be considered in the preparation of the environmental and planning documentation, including the proposed outline traffic management plan.
Activity
The Proposed Grid Route
The proposed underground cable is being designed and constructed to ESB Networks standards. The cable will be buried in a a duct and installed in a similar manner to existing utilities in the area, such as other underground cabling for communications, electricity and water mains.
The underground cable will exit the Knockshanvo Wind Farm Substation located beside Turbine 10 in the north of the site and travel to the ESB Networks substation at Ardnacrusha, as per Figure 1 (right).
What This Means For You
An essential part of the grid route design process involves engaging with the local community and communicating each step along the way.
In the event of a successful planning outcome for the grid connection, the project team will work closely with Clare County Council to ensure compliance with all planning conditions.
A comprehensive traffic management plan will also be put in place, the details of which will be communicated well in advance of work commencing. Local access will be maintained at all times for residents and regular road users.
Planning Submission
The application for the grid route will be submitted for planning approval in late 2023 / early 2024.
The planning application will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála because it is deemed Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID). The grid connection falls under a different part of the Planning and Development Act, s182A, therefore this will be a separate application to An Bord Pleanála.
You will be able to view the full planning application on a dedicated planning website and at www.pleanala.ie. We will let you know as soon as this is available.