A local TD has called for more stringent planning regulations for Battery Energy Storage Facilities.
A public meeting was held this week in Killygarry over plans to build two energy storage facilities at Shankill Lower, Clonervy and one at Pottle, Ballinagh also. The operational lifespan of these facilities would be 35 years. Addressing Taoiseach Simon Harris in the Dáil yesterday, Cavan-Monaghan TD Niamh Smyth says the lack of a requirement for an environmental impact report is a major concern.
"I have three asks if I could, Taoiseach. Its quite alarming for locals and public reps. that going forward that these sights which have been granted it by Cavan County Council and are now sitting with An Bord Pleanála which is my understanding, no EPA assesment is being requested or required. That, in my view, is non-negotiable and the other part is that it doesn't fall under the regulations of COMAH (Control of Major Accidents and Hazards). If you could see to those two measures being introduced very quickly".
The Taoiseach responded by saying he would address the concerns if his department was provided with all the information.
"I think in fairness to your constituents and the importance of the issues, if you want to provide me with a note of those three asks, I'll certainly co-ordinate a response across Government"
