SD23A/0339

Installation of energy storage units at an existing datacentre facility. The energy storage will consist of two new battery storage units, 2 new HV power skids (PCS transformer and HV RMU), two new MV transformers, concrete slab, security fence of 2.4 meters height including two new internal gate entrances.

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The Planning Authority correctly applied the terms of the South Dublin County Council Development Contribution Scheme 2021-2025, and no exemptions under Section 11 of the scheme were found to apply to the proposed ancillary energy storage development.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The Board is restricted to the consideration of the proper application of the terms of the Development Contribution Scheme and cannot consider the merits of the development de novo under this specific appeal type.
  • The proposed energy storage units are considered a low-carbon technology rather than renewable energy and do not qualify for exemptions or reductions under the current Section 48 scheme.
  • The financial contribution of €38,784.24 is deemed appropriate as the development forms an integral part of the commercial operation of the data centre facility.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Zoning EE (Enterprise and Employment)Policy EDE1EDE1 Objective 3Section 9.3 (Space Extensive Land Use)Policy EDE7Chapter 10 (Energy)Policy E3E3 Objective 1E3 Objective 2E3 Objective 3E2 Objective 4South Dublin County Development Contributions Scheme 2021-2025 Section 11

Decision Document Summary

This report assesses a first-party appeal against Condition No. 6 of a planning grant for the installation of energy storage units (BESS) at the Keppel Data Centre in Citywest Business Campus. The development includes two battery storage units, power skids, and transformers. The appellant argued that the financial contribution of €38,784.24 was unreasonable for an ancillary green infrastructure project aimed at improving sustainability. The Inspector noted that the site is zoned 'EE' for enterpr...
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