Overview
ILOS Energy, a leader in the Solar Independent Power Producer (IPP) sector, appointed Entrust Services to manage and discharge all pre-construction planning conditions for a major renewable energy hub in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.
The development consists of four solar farms; Monaincha (350 acres), Derrymore (143 acres), Erkina (72 acres), and Brehonys Bog (84 acres), alongside a 5,000 sq.m Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), a 110kV Loop-In Substation, and 2km of overhead grid connection lines.
Objective
Entrust Services was tasked with ensuring full planning and environmental compliance throughout the project lifecycle, facilitating a smooth transition from planning to construction.
Challenges
- Ecological Sensitivities: The development area included sensitive habitats requiring rigorous environmental mitigation.
- Archaeological Considerations: On-site archaeological features necessitated testing and monitoring.
- Complex Infrastructure: Involved underground interconnectors beneath the M7 Motorway and obtaining licences for road closures and directional drilling.
Solutions
● Produced comprehensive plans, including Traffic Management Plans, Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs), Surface Water Management Plans, and layout designs.
● Leveraged GIS and CAD expertise to inform intelligent design and compliance-led planning.
● Engaged an in-house ecologist and archaeology consultants to address heritage and biodiversity concerns.
● Maintained continuous communication with stakeholders and Tipperary County Council to secure plan approvals.
Results
All pre-construction conditions were successfully discharged, enabling the commencement of construction. The Tipperary Renewable Energy Hub will contribute clean energy to the national grid and is a pivotal project supporting Ireland’s climate and sustainability ambitions.
