Irish utility company ESB has granted a contract to Greencells for the development of the Bullstown Solar Farm, an 8.5MW project set to be situated southeast of Ashbourne in County Meath. With a construction cost of €13 million, the project is scheduled to commence its construction phase in early 2024.
The Bullstown Solar Farm will be seamlessly integrated into the electricity network through a short cable connection to the existing Ashbourne 38kV substation adjacent to the site. To ensure smooth construction operations, a comprehensive traffic management plan will be collaboratively devised with Meath County Council.
This venture marks the initiation of a trilogy of wholly-owned solar farms by ESB, representing an overall investment nearing €200 million. Aligned with ESB's Net Zero by 2040 strategy, this solar project is part of the company's commitment to achieve over a fivefold increase in its renewable generation portfolio, reaching 5GW. Solar energy, alongside offshore and onshore wind, battery, and green hydrogen projects, is anticipated to play a significant role in realizing this strategy.
Eoin Naughton, Solar Development Manager at ESB, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Bullstown Solar Farm marks the beginning of a sustained campaign by ESB to develop and construct a large portfolio of utility-scale solar farms throughout the midlands, south, and southeast of the country as we move towards our ultimate goal of achieving Net Zero by 2040.”
Highlighting the opportunities for landowners and local communities, Naughton emphasized the positive impact of solar projects in reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels and contributing to the decarbonization of the electrical network.
Ric Hallikeri, General Manager EMEA at Greencells, commented on the collaboration, saying, “Bullstown Solar Farm is our first project with ESB, and we look forward to delivering this important kick-off project for its wider solar portfolio.” Greencells, recognized as one of the largest European solar Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) providers, sees Ireland as a focus market with six solar farms currently under construction in the country.
