The proposal for the Strategic Infrastructure Development on lands near Cranny was rejected based on significant information deficits with the assessments undertaken as part of the application.
On September 30th 2025, Cloonkett Green Energy Limited submitted plans for the erection of 14 wind turbines with a height of 150m alongside a permanent 220kV substation, spanning the townlands of Cloondrinagh, Cloonkett, Burrenfadda, Shessiv, Craghera, Glenconaun More, Ballyduneen, and Carrowreagh.
The proposal was submitted as a Strategic Infrastructure Development, meaning it bypasssed Clare County Council’s planning office and was submitted directly to An Coimisiún Pleanála.
In their application, Cloonkett Green Energy Limited claimed the project ‘would have a positive impact on the area’, stating it was ‘in the national interest and of strategic importance’ with reference to the Clare County Development Plan and the Climate Action Plan.
A number of objections were made to the proposal, citing issues with the location, the lack of colsultation from Cloonkett Green Energy Limited with residents and the potential for negative impacts on both public health and aviation.
In its order refusing planning permission, An Coimisiún Pleanála stated that granting permission for the development would be ‘inconsistent with the objectives of the Water Action Plan 2024’.
An Coimisiún Pleanála said concerns remained over implications on site integrity for the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation, specifically that ‘adverse effects on the Freshwater Pearl Mussel cannot be excluded beyond reasonable scientific doubt’.
The commission concluded it was not satisfied the development was consistent with achieving environmental objectives citing an ‘unacceptable risk to biodiversity, water and in particular the Freshwater Pearl Mussel’.
It was also stated risks of major aviation accidents were not ‘adequately addressed nor assessed in the application documentation’.
The decision also stated the sum of €40,701 is due to be recouped from the applicant.
