The scheme, which has not yet been submitted for planning approval, comes from West Clare Renewable Energy (WCRE).

The firm hopes to construct 30 three-MW wind turbines on the slopes of Mount Callan – a 391metre high mountain located between Ennis and Miltown Malbay.

The company claims the proposed €200m project would be capable of generating enough electricity to power every home and business in County Clare, as well as meeting the Limerick Clare Energy Agency’s 2010 targets for emissions reductions and renewable energy production.

Padraig Howard, company chairman, said: “WCRE believes this site represents an optimal location for a renewable energy project of this nature and meets all the principles of sustainability.

“We have employed what we believe are the leading environmental and planning experts, who have carried out detailed wildlife, geological and hydrological studies on site at Mount Callan over the last three years.

“Their reports have confirmed that from an environmental perspective Mount Callan is a suitable location for a wind farm development.

“A detailed environmental impact study is to be submitted with the planning application.”

Luke Walsh

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