Larne based renewable energy company, RES has submitted a planning application for its fourteen-turbine Ballygilbert Wind Farm which, if approved could deliver £24.2 million of investment to support the ‘Green Economic Recovery’ in Northern Ireland.

The proposed Ballygilbert Wind Farm located approximately three kilometres north west of Cairncastle would be capable of generating enough clean, low cost renewable electricity for approximately 61,900 homes. It would also build on the success of the low carbon and renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland, which as outlined by Economy Minster, Diane Dodds, is supporting 5,400 jobs and generating more than £250 million in exports.

Additionally, it has been estimated that £10.41 million will be realised in the Northern Ireland economy during construction alone and a further £13.79 million in rates to support the provision of essential services for residents, during the operational life of the wind farm.

Over the previous 18 months RES has been gathering detailed environmental and technical information about the site and has received valuable feedback during the public consultation. The results of the environmental work, together with the consultation feedback, has been used to inform the detailed design of the proposed wind farm.

Jennifer McCorry, RES’ Senior Development Manager, said: 
“The renewables industry continues to invest in Northern Ireland, supporting jobs and local businesses. As we emerge from the current health and economic crisis, with the continued threat of climate change, it is more important than ever that we invest in a green economic recovery.

“Ballygilbert could deliver £24.2 million of investment in the form of jobs, contracts for local businesses and rates to support the vital local services that we all depend on. The project would also produce clean electricity at least cost for consumers and help us tackle climate change.”

In Northern Ireland, RES has developed and/or constructed twenty-two onshore wind farms equating to over a quarter of Northern Ireland’s onshore wind capacity and has a record of using local companies to develop, construct and operate renewable energy projects.

KeyFacts Energy: RES UK country profile