Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 June 2026
17. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the consideration his Department has given, within its renewable energy policy framework, to the cumulative impact of large-scale windfarm developments in areas such as Galway East; the way in which community impact is being addressed as part of the transition to renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44339/26]
View answerAll renewable electricity developments are subject to careful independent scrutiny at the planning application stage, whereby protection of human health, residential amenities and cumulative impacts are key considerations.
Provisional figures from EirGrid show that nearly 41% of electricity grid demand was from renewables in 2025 and around 50% over February, March and April this year. Under the ARE Taskforce and through the National Planning Framework, a supporting and regionally balanced planning policy for onshore wind and solar energy is being developed to enable Ireland’s electricity supply to keep pace with economic growth and protect Irish homes and businesses from volatile fossil fuel prices.
Community participation and local benefit are important elements in maintaining public acceptance in the transition to renewable electricity. Projects receiving support under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) are required to establish Community Benefit Funds. These Funds are intended to support local, community-led initiatives that promote environment, social and cultural benefit.
All renewable electricity generators should engage constructively with local communities and put in place appropriate community benefit arrangements equivalent to those under the RESS.
Contributions to RESS Community Benefit Funds are set at €2 per Megawatt-hour of electricity generated by each supported project. In the case of onshore wind projects, provisions for direct near neighbour payments are required, recognising the importance of ensuring that those living close to renewable electricity projects receive tangible benefits.
My Department has being working in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, who have responsibility for planning matters, on a review of the 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines, which will inform a new National Planning Statement on Wind Energy under the new Planning and Development Act 2024. The National Planning Statement on Wind Energy will address key matters including noise, setback distance, shadow flicker, community obligation, community dividend and grid connections.
