Knocknair Renewable Energy Park

Solar technologies capture solar rays from the sun and turn it into useful forms of energy. Photovoltaic (PV) panels comprise several PV cells (which typically produce 1-2 watts of power each) with a whole panel typically producing 250-700 watts depending on the make and model. These PV cells are made of different semiconductor materials, such as silicone, and are sandwiched between protective materials in a combination of glass and / or plastics. When a photon of light from the sun strikes the semiconductor material, it displaces charged particles known as electrons and creates an electrical current. This Direct Current (DC) electricity is then able to be extracted via conductive metal contacts and converted to Alternating Current (AC) electricity via inverters for transmission via the electricity network.

The construction traffic will adhere to an agreed Traffic Management Plan with the council, which will include the use of an existing built access track to avoid impacting local residents. The construction period is expected to take approximately 12 months, and during this time there will be deliveries of equipment to the site. However, the construction period which generates the most traffic is only expected to last 6 months. To manage any potential impacts, Renewco Power and Wardell Armstrong have put in place measures to control construction traffic and minimise disruption to local roads

If consented, the Knocknair Renewable Energy Park project will be subject to a planning condition restricting the total length of the operational period to a maximum of 40 years. At the end of this period, the project will be required to be fully decommissioned, and the land reinstated to its pre-existing condition as agricultural land to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority. The details of these decommissioning activities will be secured via a Decommissioning Plan to be submitted for the Council’s approval before the end of the project’s lifespan. It is considered that grazing will continue during the operational period.

A desktop Noise Impact Assessment has been carried out and a report submitted as part of the planning application. Therefore, any operational noise from the project would be low and would comply with all proposed noise limits during all periods of the day and night.

The battery storage system is designed to have a very low risk of failure. However, in the unlikely event that a failure should occur, monitoring equipment including fire detection and fire prevention systems will be installed within the containerised battery units to ensure that any emergency remains under control. The site access will also be designed to ensure that fire appliances can safely access and egress the site. Renewco Power are consulting with the Fire and Rescue Service as part of the design and are continuing to monitor industry best practice to ensure that the highest standards of safety are maintained for these units.