RES has secured planning approval for its Magheralin Solar Farm in County Down.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council approved the application, which RES said marks a crucial step toward a cleaner and more affordable energy future for Northern Ireland.
The solar farm will be located about 1km southwest of Magheralin and will generate enough clean electricity to meet the needs of 13,600 homes annually.
The project will offset around 16,200 tonnes of CO₂ per year, compared with fossil fuel generation.
RES said the site was selected for its solar irradiation potential and proximity to a viable grid connection, and lies outside any statutory environmental or landscape designations.
“This is a well-designed project which will effectively combine clean, low-cost electricity generation with continued agricultural use and biodiversity enhancement,” said Rachel Buchanan, senior development project manager at RES.
“We’re pleased the council’s planning committee voted to approve the application, in line with the case officer’s recommendation.”
The company said the project will allow sheep grazing to continue on the land and help support rural economies.
It added that vegetation recovery beneath the solar panels will enhance biodiversity and preserve future agricultural potential.
The planning application includes a landscape planting plan with measures such as new tree and hedgerow planting to reduce visual impact and provide wildlife corridors.
RES said the solar farm will also deliver local economic benefit and create jobs during construction and decommissioning.
The build phase is expected to take around 40 weeks, with opportunities for local contractors and employees to participate.
