Magherakeel Solar

The Proposal

Proposed 22MW solar farm and associated infrastructure including ground mounted solar PV panels on support frames, transformer cabins, fencing, lighting, CCTV cameras, internal service road, landscaping and ancillary site and access works.

 

Project Redline

 

Why is this project important?

Northern Ireland has a legally binding target to ensure that at least 80% of our electricity consumption comes from renewable sources by 2030. This commitment, part of the Path to Net Zero Energy Strategy and supported by the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, is a crucial step in addressing the climate emergency and securing our long-term energy future. Solar energy is essential in helping us maximise the use of renewable power. It will play an increasingly pivotal role in green energy supplies and meeting electricity demands. Solar power provides a clean, reliable, and sustainable source of electricity that can be harnessed almost anywhere, from rural landscapes to urban rooftops. By tapping into solar energy, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, cut energy costs, and build a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

 

Site Location

Lands c.220m north and 450m northeast of 11 Shannaghy Road, c.185m southwest and c.225m south of 2 Shannaghy Road, Killeter, Castlederg.

 

Public Consultation

A Pre-Application Public Consultation Event will take place in Castlederg as follows:

Location: Derg Valley Leisure Centre, 6 Strabane Road, Castlederg, BT81 7HZ

Date: Tuesday, 28th July 2026

Time: 4pm to 8pm

 

Information boards on display at the public consultation event can also be viewed below (click on an image to enlarge).

 

Providing Feedback

We welcome feedback on this proposal throughout the pre-application phase – either in-person at the consultation event or through Gray’s Communications on behalf of the applicant, Heron Storage Development Ltd and there are a number of ways you can do this:

Online feedback form: Located at bottom of this page

Telephone: +44 28 7116 1364

Email: info@grayscommunications.com (use ‘Magherakeel Solar’ as the subject line)

Post: Gray’s Communications, 19 Clarendon Street, Derry~Londonderry, BT48 7EP

Please note the feedback window for the pre-application phase closes on 5pm on 28th August 2026.

Note: Once a planning application is submitted, the standard neighbour notification process will be implemented, affording the public an opportunity to submit comments directly to the planning authority.