Local Benefits

During a period of rising energy bills, concerns about energy security and the ever-present threat of climate change, there has never been a greater need for projects like Mullaghclogher.

Northern Ireland’s Climate Bill sets a target of 80% of electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2030, and it is expected that 65% of this will need to come from onshore wind. If consented, Mullaghclogher Wind Farm would be capable of generating around 72MW of clean, low-cost electricity, equivalent to the electricity usage of over 80,000¹ homes each year. Onshore wind projects like Mullaghclogher contribute to the Climate Bill target, enable more energy to be generated domestically improving security of supply, and are the cheapest form of new electricity generation², alongside offshore wind and large-scale solar. This makes developments like Mullaghclogher not just good for the environment but also for the consumer.

The proposed wind farm, if consented, would continue to build on the success of the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland. It would provide a vital economic boost, creating skilled, sustainable jobs and help to drive a cleaner and more resilient economy.

Mullaghclogher has the potential to deliver approximately £3.7 million into the local area in the form of jobs, employment, and the use of local services.

In addition, the project would deliver around £800,000 in business rates each year, supporting vital local services for all local residents.

 

 

^{1 The homes figure has been calculated by taking the predicted annual electricity generation of the site (based on RES assessments Mullaghclogher has a predicted capacity factor of 48.2%) and dividing this by the annual average electricity figures from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) showing that the annual UK average domestic household consumption is 3,509 kWh (Dec 2022).}

^{2 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6556027d046ed400148b99fe/electricity-generation-costs-2023.pdf}

 

 

 

Bunnyconnellan Wind Farm, Co. Mayo - for illustrative purposes only