Natural Forces are looking to develop a number of community wind projects across Ireland in line with the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS). These projects are currently limited to maximum export of no greater than 5MW. With the advancement of technology in most cases this would equate to a single wind turbine project per community.
Based on preliminary results from environmental and technical studies that we have undertaken, projects would consists for the following:
- Between 1 and 2 turbines
- Individual turbine capacities of between 2.35 megawatts (MW) and 5 MW
- Turbine proximity to houses minimum 500m (based on 125m tip height)
- Project Ownership 51% community 49% Natural Forces
- Individual turbine tip heights of between approximately 125 metres and 180 metres
The final decision on the project envelope, has not yet been made. There are a number of ongoing survey activities which will continue up to, during, and post construction, which will inform this decision. We are seeking to balance the technical, commercial, and environmental considerations to deliver the best project we possibly can. The feedback we receive from our consultation activities throughout the project planning will help to shape the project.
The Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS) was released in February 2020 and has been designed to enable community involvement in renewable energy generation, Natural forces as an experienced community partner have developed a number of successful wind projects in North America we are looking forward to working with communities to bringing projects to operation.
