Two large-scale solar farm developments covering a combined 712ac are awaiting planning decisions in Kerry and Waterford. Both are seeking 10-year planning permissions for the developments designed to operate for 40 years.

In Kerry, Empower Derra West Renewables Ltd has applied for permission to develop a solar farm project on approximately 343ac across lands in the townlands of Inch East, Garryard, Carhoonaknock West, Shrone Middle, Derra East and Derra West, in the civil parish of Galey, Co Kerry.

The project involves lands owned by eight landowners and includes ground-mounted solar PV panels, 38 inverters, new access tracks, underground cabling, perimeter fencing with CCTV and access gates, four temporary construction compounds, drainage infrastructure, landscaping and associated electrical infrastructure.

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A number of objections and submissions have been lodged, including by the Listowel Community First Responders and the Listowel Business and Community Alliance. Kerry County Council is due to make its decision by 30 July 2026.

Waterford

Meanwhile, in Co Waterford, Amarenco Solar Modelligo Ltd is seeking permission for a solar farm covering approximately 369ac.

The proposed development is located in the townlands of Drumroe, Clashnagoneen, Kilcannon (Osborne) and adjoining lands east of Cappoquin, west of Cappagh and south of Modeligo. Plans include ground-mounted solar PV panels, 18 single-storey transformer stations and four single-storey storage containers.

At the time of writing, there have been no significant third-party submissions lodged on the Waterford application. Waterford City and County Council is expected to issue its decision by 19 August 2026.