Mayo's windfarm projects may become 'very divisive'

Developers of renewable energy projects such as windfarms can apply to build anywhere in Mayo with each application taken on its own merits.

This was the advice of a senior planner in Mayo County Council in response to a query from independent councillor Patsy O’Brien, who wanted to know could windfarm applications be made anywhere in Mayo.

During a discussion at last week’s meeting of the local authority, Cllr O'Brien said councillors are being asked that some areas be removed from the Mayo Renewable Energy Strategy.

"This is pertaining to the south and east of Mayo where there are current applications. Are developers within their rights to make these applications?” 

Senior official Brendan Munnelly said the council is currently reviewing submissions in relation to the Renewable Energy Strategy.

"The emphasis is on locating projects in areas we consider suitable. Some are in the south of the county but are considered open to consideration and we can’t stop any application coming in and each one will be assessed on its merits.” 

Cllr Michael Burke commented that he could see decisions around such developments becoming “very divisive” in communities because "30 farmers might earn an alternative income from a development, but it may not be acceptable to the neighbourhood"

“We need to be very careful how we tread and deal with this in our own areas," he said, adding that solar farms were “another thing coming down the road”. 

“The government is very supportive of alternative energy so it will be a question of balancing things going forward.”