Battery energy storage concerns
Deputy Smyth raised local objections to proposed battery energy storage systems in Cavan, focusing on safety and environmental safeguards. The Taoiseach’s time ran out, and the Ceann Comhairle said she would coordinate a Government response if the Deputy supplied the specific asks.
I wish to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, on his departure as leader of the Green Party.
Last night, I was at a well-attended, large public meeting in the Killygarry Community Centre, County Cavan. Gathered there were people from the Shankill lower and Pottle areas in Cavan, where two sites are proposed for the development of battery energy storage systems. This is arguably the first project of its kind in County Cavan.
A number of speakers educated everyone in the room, along with myself and other public representatives. The main concerns are around safety for local residents and the possible risks to the general public. The question is being asked as to who is responsible for that element of the development of the sites. Locals have done a lot of work on this and they are getting feedback that no one is responsible at the moment for the safety of these sites – not EirGrid, the ESB, the Departments of the environment or housing, the EPA or the SEAI. They all give the same answer that no one is responsible. I have three asks. It is quite alarming for the locals and for public representatives. Cavan County Council has granted planning permission for these sites-----
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-----and I understand the applications are now sitting with An Bord Pleanála. However, no EPA environmental impact assessment has been requested or is required. That should be non-negotiable. It also does not fall under the COMAH regulations, which are for the control of major accidents and hazards. I ask that the Taoiseach would see to those two measures being introduced very quickly.
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I thank Deputy Smyth for raising with me the issues that were raised in Killygarry, County Cavan last night in respect of these battery energy storage systems. In fairness to her constituents and the important issues, were the Deputy to provide me with a note of those three asks, I would co-ordinate a response across the Government and see if we can establish information for her constituents and if there are lessons to be learned that need be applied in the future.