FuturEnergy Ireland and SSE Renewables have recently received approval from An Bord Pleanála to develop the Gort Uí Rathaile Wind Farm, located approximately 4 km from Ballyvourney, near the border between County Cork and County Kerry. The project plans to install 13 turbines aimed at increasing Ireland’s renewable electricity production.
A strategic project for Ireland’s energy sector
The Gort Uí Rathaile Wind Farm aligns with Ireland’s efforts to expand its renewable energy capacity. By reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, the project seeks to stabilise household energy costs and enhance the country’s resilience against global energy uncertainties.
The completion of this wind farm will depend on securing market access and a final investment decision by co-developers FuturEnergy Ireland and SSE Renewables. These steps will determine the project’s progression to the construction phase.
Local economic impact
The development of the wind farm is expected to benefit the local economy. During the construction phase, up to 60 jobs could be created, followed by six permanent positions for site operations. Additionally, annual contributions to local taxes could fund infrastructure and public services such as roads, public lighting, libraries, and fire services.
A key feature of the project is the establishment of a Community Benefit Fund. This fund, managed by a committee comprising local community members, would allocate hundreds of thousands of euros annually to local groups and projects once the wind farm becomes operational.
Partnership and future projects
Gort Uí Rathaile is a 50:50 joint venture between SSE Renewables and FuturEnergy Ireland. This partnership also includes six additional projects in Donegal, Cork, Kerry, and Mayo, collectively amounting to approximately 600 MW at various stages of development. Among them, the Lenalea Wind Farm in County Donegal reached full capacity and was connected to the national grid in late 2023.
