22/4488
Permission for a synchronous compensator (electricity grid stabilization) development within the townland of Killeena, near Knockraha, Co.Cork within a site area of approximately 0.8 hectares. Planning permission is sought for; (1) a High Inertia Synchronous Compensator (HISC) compound consisting of the following; 1 no. High Inertia Synchronous Compensator (HISC) building enclosed within a steel clad framed, housed structure (12.1m height with a total area of 504 sq.m); electrical container area consisting of 8 no. electrical equipment containers, 4 no. external cooler units; 1 auxiliary and start up Static Frequency Converter (SFC) transformer; 1 generator circuit breaker, 1 emergency diesel generator and 1 associated diesel storage tank. (2) a High Voltage (HV) compound consisting of a main transformer and high voltage equipment. (3) a Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) building compound consisting of the following; high voltage Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) housed structure (13.5m height with a total area of 558 sq.m); (4) upgrade to the existing site entrance onto the L6989, internal access tracks, fencing, landscaping and drainage. Planning permission is sought for a period of 10 years.
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission because the development is a strategically important, zero-carbon project necessary for electricity grid stabilization and the integration of renewable energy, consistent with national and regional policies. Its location in a Greenbelt area is considered exceptional and justified by its technical requirement to be in close proximity to the existing Knockraha substation.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is acceptable in principle as it provides essential utility infrastructure that supports Ireland's transition to a low-carbon economy and requires proximity to a specific substation.
- Visual impacts on the rural landscape are considered limited and manageable through sensitive building finishes and a robust, mature landscaping scheme.
- Potential environmental disturbances regarding noise, traffic, and ecology are deemed non-significant, provided standard mitigation measures and planning conditions are strictly adhered to.