Northern Ireland's Largest Solar Project in Antrim by Lightsource bp
The Antrim project will deliver over 32 MW of clean, renewable energy into the Northern Irish energy grid
We’re pleased to announce the commissioning of a major solar development in Antrim, delivering over 32 MW of clean, renewable energy into the Northern Irish energy grid. This is Northern Ireland’s largest solar energy development. The Antrim project will create enough energy to power more than 11,000 homes. This latest Lightsource solar development will reduce Northern Ireland’s use of fossil fuels and will further improve security of energy supply in the local market.
By developing solar projects, Northern Ireland can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and reduce emissions. The project will save an estimated 18,140 tonnes of carbon annually. This will result in a saving which would be equivalent of taking over 4,000 cars off the road.
The 32 MW solar energy project is made up of a network of five sites, linked by a single connection to the electricity grid. The projects, all in County Antrim, are located at Lough Road, Moira Road, Belfast Road (Nutts Corner), Knockcairn and Hillside and are each between 5 and 10 MW.
Separately, Lightsource has also commenced generating power at a new 6 MW project at Millar Farm, Antrim. This makes Lightsource’s portfolio the largest connected solar portfolio in Northern Ireland at 44 MW, with further projects under development and soon to be completed.
The projects were designed after a period of community consultation. Each has been designed to increase local biodiversity levels. Lightsource worked closely with ecologists throughout the planning stages to create a tailored environmental plan for the new solar farms. The sites will feature new planting of native hedgerow, wildflowers and the installation of bird and bat nesting boxes. The net outcome will be an environment in which a diverse range of flora and fauna can thrive.
Lightsource opened Northern Ireland’s first solar farm in 2016, a private wire connection to Belfast International Airport. That project, located one kilometre from the airport, is generating over a quarter of the airport’s needs. The Belfast International Airport solar farm has already won a number of high profile environmental awards.
The Northern Ireland Executives’ target is to meet 40% of our energy demand from renewable sources by 2020 and large-scale solar can play a key role in NI’s overall energy mix, by providing a predictable and reliable source of energy.
Nick Boyle, CEO at Lightsource, said: “We are delighted to complete this landmark project in Antrim. This is the most significant solar development on the island of Ireland to date. Domestically generated solar energy has an important role to play in relation to meeting Northern Ireland’s energy needs.
In addition to being a clean, renewable source of energy, solar is cost effective and can be deployed quickly and efficiently. In a post Brexit environment, it is also good news that we are developing local projects that make Northern Ireland’s energy supply more secure and reduce the need for imported gas and other fossil fuels. We look forward to announcing further projects in the months ahead and to growing our business in Northern Ireland.”
Related news
19 Apr, 2024
What is Biodiversity Net Gain, and how will it help nature?
Nature is vanishing at an alarming rate. This is no less than a crisis, with biodiversity loss affecting public health, food security, and efforts to curb climate change.
16 Apr, 2024
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Solar panels continue to generate renewable electricity even on gloomy days, but how does this work and what effect does cloud have on generation?
09 Apr, 2024
World Economic Forum brief: Clean energy as a catalyst for a nature-positive energy transition
World Economic Forum brief examining how building renewable energy can help biodiversity and leave ecosystems in better shape than they found them.
08 Apr, 2024
Solar summits to task force – Lightsource bp’s 2024 Q1 event highlights
We hit the ground running to kick off 2024 at Lightsource bp. Here's a glimpse of the highlights from a range of events we have been a part of so far.
12 Mar, 2024
2024 utility-scale solar projects in progress
For over a decade, Lightsource bp has been supporting businesses and communities with affordable and reliable solar power.
08 Mar, 2024
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2024
International Women’s Day is a global celebration to raise awareness and advocate for women's rights. We asked some of our team members what it means to them.
23 Feb, 2024
Cultivating success: Lightsource bp’s vibrant growth in Taiwan through cultural adaptability
Lightsource bp’s Taiwan team organised a lunar year-end appreciation gathering in the town of Budai in Chiayi County, the very site of its pioneering fishery solar project.
21 Feb, 2024
Lightsource bp completes $348 million financing package for two utility-scale solar projects in Texas
Financing secured for two new Texas solar farms
12 Feb, 2024
Lightsource bp receives Investment Award for its contribution to renewable energy growth in Greece
Lightsource bp, global leader in the development and management of solar energy projects, has been awarded the Investment Award at the UK-Greek Business Awards.
08 Feb, 2024
Lightsource bp provides solar panels and technology support for Brazilian public schools
Lightsource bp, a global leader in the development of solar energy projects has continued its support for public schools in Brazil’s Ceará region.