Planning Permission Secured for Major Solar Project in Ireland
Greenvolt Next has secured planning permission for a landmark 4-MW solar installation at Sanofi’s Irish site, marking a significant step in Ireland’s renewable energy journey.
The new solar project, completed by Greenvolt Next, will deliver clean energy directly to Sanofi’s operations, supporting both corporate sustainability goals and national climate targets. The facility is one of the largest industrial solar installations in Ireland and demonstrates how planning permission can unlock large-scale renewable solutions for major businesses.
Greenvolt Next worked closely with local authorities and environmental agencies throughout the planning process, ensuring all regulatory requirements were met. The project’s approval included a thorough assessment of environmental impact, with measures in place to minimise disruption to surrounding habitats and communities. This approach reflects the growing importance of balancing energy development with ecological responsibility.
At the heart of the project’s success was a robust planning permission application that addressed key concerns, including flood-risk development and land use compatibility. The development team provided detailed mitigation strategies, which helped secure the necessary approvals from An Bord Pleanála. The decision sets a precedent for future renewable energy schemes, showing how careful planning and stakeholder engagement can lead to positive outcomes.
The solar installation will generate enough electricity to power thousands of homes annually, significantly reducing Sanofi’s reliance on fossil fuels. The project also includes advanced battery storage, allowing for more stable and reliable energy supply. This integration of solar and storage technologies highlights the evolving nature of Ireland’s energy infrastructure and the role of planning permission in enabling innovation.
Industry experts believe the Sanofi project could inspire similar developments across the country, particularly in the industrial and commercial sectors. As demand for renewable energy grows, securing planning permission for large-scale solar installations will become increasingly important. The Greenvolt Next project demonstrates best practice in navigating the planning process and delivering tangible environmental benefits.
Key features of the project include:
- 4-MW solar capacity, one of the largest in Ireland
- Advanced battery storage for energy reliability
- Comprehensive environmental impact assessment
- Close collaboration with An Bord Pleanála and local authorities
- Support for Sanofi’s sustainability targets
The successful completion of the Sanofi solar project underscores the critical role of planning permission in advancing Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions. As more businesses seek to reduce their carbon footprint, the lessons learned from this development will be invaluable for future housing scheme approval and flood-risk development initiatives.
With the project now operational, Greenvolt Next and Sanofi are setting a new benchmark for corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship. The collaboration highlights how strategic planning and regulatory compliance can drive meaningful change in the energy sector.
Originally reported in on Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:37:25 +0000. Full story
