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The Modeligo solar farm public consultation drew a large crowd as residents gathered to question plans for a major renewable energy project near Cappoquin.
Local Councillors Niamh O’Donovan and Donnacadh Mulcahy attended the meeting, which developer Amarenco hosted in Modeligo Community Centre.
Both councillors said the strong turnout showed clear public interest, with locals eager to understand what the project could mean for the area.
Cllr. O’Donovan said the meeting revealed a balanced mood among residents.
She said people approached the consultation with questions rather than strong opinions, as they sought clear information about the proposed development.
O’Donovan explained that locals want detailed answers on issues such as glare, long-term responsibility, and how the land will be managed over time.
Meanwhile, Cllr. Mulcahy said the public response reflected a demand for transparency.
He said people are not firmly for or against the project yet, but they want full clarity before forming a view.
As previously reported by WLR, the proposed development could generate enough renewable energy to power up to 28,000 homes annually.
The project would span a large area near Cappoquin and connect to the national grid via Dungarvan.
If approved, it would become one of the most significant solar developments in County Waterford.
The consultation focused heavily on how the project would affect land and local communities.
Cllr. O’Donovan said she asked detailed questions about the project’s lifespan, potential expansion, and environmental impact.
She said the company confirmed the solar farm could operate for between 25 and 40 years and would remain responsible for managing and decommissioning the site.
Cllr. Mulcahy highlighted concerns around farming use, noting that while sheep can graze under the panels, it remains unclear how this will work in practice.
He also pointed out that landowners would retain ownership and that the land would be returned after the project ends.
Annual community fund a key talking point
One of the most discussed elements of the Modeligo solar farm public consultation was the proposed community fund.
Developers said the project would deliver around €240,000 per year for local initiatives over a 15-year period.
Cllr. Mulcahy described this as a significant investment in the area, although he said details on how the fund will operate still need clarification.
Both councillors welcomed the public consultation and praised Amarenco for engaging directly with the community.
Cllr. O’Donovan said the company must now follow through on its commitment to meaningful engagement.
Mulcahy agreed, saying transparency will be key as the project moves forward through the planning process.
While the project could boost renewable energy capacity in the region, questions around land use, environmental impact, and community benefit are expected to shape the debate in the months ahead.
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