Greenhills Solar and Battery

The Greenhills project is situated adjacent to the R364 road approx. 7km north-west of Youghal and 6.5km north-east of Killeagh, Co. Cork, within a number of local townlands, including Knocknagappagh, Barnaviddane, Ballyneague and Ballydaniel. There will be several elements proposed that will collectively form the Greenhills Renewable Energy Development.  

Solar Farm

The solar farm proposal will comprise an estimated 250MW export capacity of solar panels on ground-mounted frames. The frames are fixed to the ground using sheet piles, securing them in place and helping to minimise any impacts on the existing local ground conditions. The solar farm will include multiple inverters and transformers throughout the array, which are typically hidden from sight, with underground cabling connecting it all together. This part of the development will include significant native hedgerow planting around the periphery, to shield it from view and improve local biodiversity.  

Substation

The existing Knockraha-Cullenagh 220kV overhead line runs through the middle of the site and it is expected that this will facilitate connection to the grid via an on-site loop-in substation. This onsite 220kV substation will form an important part of the national electricity grid and would qualify as a Strategic Infrastructure Development under the planning regulations. Having a potential onsite connection like this removes the need for grid connection cabling within the local road network, helping to significantly reduce any potential traffic disruptions during construction. 

Grid Stability Services

The proposed development will also include some grid stability services, comprising of a battery energy storage system. This will be located beside the substation and provides an important service to the national grid, helping to prevent blackouts and ensure a more reliable, secure and consistent power supply. By charging at times of high supply/low demand and discharging at times of low supply/high demand, this storage system brings a whole range of stability benefits to the grid, helping to balance supply and demand. It also allows for increased usage of renewable energy on the grid, which has been shown to decrease electricity prices for the consumer, while offsetting the use of coal, oil and gas.  

Additional Information

Newsletter February 2025
Newsletter July 2025
Letter to Residents August 2025
Community Consultation Map August 2025
RESS Community Benefit Funds Rulebook