FuturEnergy Ireland and SSE Renewables have submitted a planning application to An Bord Pleanála for the up to 122-MW Cummeennabuddoge wind farm, located 5 km north-west of Ballyvourney, near the boundary of Counties Cork and Kerry. The renewable energy co-development project, managed by Cummeennabuddoge Wind DAC, proposes a 17-turbine wind farm that, if approved and constructed, could generate enough green energy to power an estimated 81,900 homes annually.
The developers estimate that the project would displace nearly 4.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions over its lifetime. The Cummeennabuddoge project is part of a larger portfolio between SSE and FuturEnergy Ireland, which includes the 30-MW Lenalea wind farm in County Donegal.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the Cummeennabuddoge wind farm is expected to support local employment, contribute annual rates to local authorities, and establish a Community Benefit Fund. The project has the potential to produce up to 375,000 MWh of electricity each year, contributing approximately €690,000 annually to the Community Benefit Fund, with a total lifetime fund exceeding €10 million. Local authority contributions are estimated at around €1 million each year, while the construction phase could create up to 130 jobs.
The planning submission follows extensive community consultations that began in winter 2020, led by the project's community liaison officer, Brendan Twomey. The delivery of the Cummeennabuddoge Wind Farm will depend on obtaining the necessary planning approvals, securing a market route, and a final investment decision by the co-development partners.
FuturEnergy Ireland project manager Dave O'Sullivan stated, “Together with our project partner SSE Renewables, FuturEnergy Ireland is extremely pleased to announce the submission of Cummeennabuddoge wind farm into planning. Today marks a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainably delivering a cleaner future for Ireland. This project underscores our unwavering dedication to harnessing the power of Ireland's rich renewable resources, driving positive climate change, and shaping a greener future for generations to come.”
SSE Renewables lead project development manager Gordon Kyle added, “We are delighted to have worked closely with FuturEnergy Ireland on the planning submission for Cummeennabuddoge wind farm, marking another milestone for the co-development portfolio and testament to the strong partnership between both companies. We look forward to the delivery of further renewable energy projects with FuturEnergy Ireland, from Donegal to Cork, all of which will be crucial as Ireland continues its journey to net zero.”
