Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:362. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the planning guidelines that exist for solar farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52360/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 2 November 2021
Ceisteanna (362)
Freagraí scríofa
As is the case with the large majority of development types, there are currently no specific planning guidelines in place in respect of solar farms. Proposals for individual solar farm developments are subject to the statutory requirements of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, in the same manner as other proposed developments, with planning applications made to the relevant local planning authority and with a right of appeal to An Bord Pleanála. Within the wider national and local planning context, planning authorities must make their decisions based on the specific merits or otherwise of individual planning applications, in line with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
While I am satisfied that the planning code is sufficiently robust to facilitate the assessment of individual planning applications for solar farm developments, the matter is being kept under review. Where the need for specific planning guidance for solar farms is identified, my Department will develop such guidance as appropriate.