A planning application for a major solar farm on the outskirts of Ennis has been put on hold, amid concerns about glare from the solar panels “dazzling pilots” flying into and out of Shannon Airport.
Harmony Solar Limited is seeking permission for the 31 hectare development at Spancil Hill.
The proposed development consists of 92,550 square metres of solar panels across over 31 hectares of land, at Spancil Hill.
Along with the photo-voltaic panels, the solar farm would include an electrical substation, boundary security fencing, new access tracks and other associated works.
Harmony Solar is a 10-year seeking permission for the farm.
But Clare County Council has requested additional information from the developer, citing concerns with aviation safety.
Though a Glint and Glare Study was submitted with the application, the local authority has expressed concern that pilots flying into and out of Shannon Airport could be dazzled by the reflection off the panels.
If it went ahead, the solar farm would be less than 25km from Shannon.
Clare County Council has requested that an analysis of the reflectivity of the panels be carried out and resubmitted to them, before any further consideration is given.
