Overview
In 2023, Entrust Services secured full planning permission for a 32.15-hectare solar energy development on behalf of the ESB at Tracystown, Co. Wexford. The development includes approximately 80,000 m² of solar panels, ground-mounted frames, access tracks, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), inverter and transformer units, a 38kV substation, underground grid cabling, a communications mast, and associated infrastructure including fencing and CCTV. Entrust Services also attained a Section 5 Declaration for two underground 38kV grid connections linking three ESB-controlled solar farms across the county.
Objective
The project’s goal was to deliver clean, renewable energy to support Ireland’s 2030 and 2050 climate commitments – specifically a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full climate neutrality by 2050. The proposed solar development would contribute significantly by displacing imported fossil fuel reliance with secure, home-generated energy feeding into the national grid.
Challenges
- Complex Scale: The project’s extensive site area and technical scope required detailed cross-disciplinary coordination, including environmental, engineering, and planning components.
- Community & Environmental Sensitivities: Concerns were raised regarding residential amenity impacts, biodiversity, visual intrusion, and traffic during construction.
- Fast-Track Delivery: There was a need for a comprehensive and highly efficient planning approach to secure permission within a short 12-week window.
Solutions
Entrust Services acted as Lead Planning Consultant and Project Manager, delivering a thorough planning package and overseeing all communications with stakeholders to accelerate approval:
● Led early-stage consultation with Wexford County Council and engaged in transparent, proactive public consultation with the local community.
● Prepared a suite of environmental reports in-house, including LVIA, ecological assessments, ZTV analysis, and photomontages to address visual and environmental concerns.
● Proposed strategic mitigation measures, including hedgerow planting and the creation of a wildflower buffer zone to protect local amenity and enhance biodiversity.
● Secured a Section 5 Declaration for the underground grid connection works, streamlining the planning process for connecting renewable assets to the grid.
Results
Planning permission was granted within 12 weeks, and this streamlined timeline enabled the ESB to contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s renewable energy targets. Once operational, the Tracystown Solar Farm will generate clean, low-carbon electricity for distribution via the national grid, supporting thousands of homes and businesses nationwide. This project represents a crucial step in advancing Ireland’s Net Zero pathway and energy independence by replacing harmful fossil fuels with sustainable solar power.
