A battery energy storage facility in Lanesboro has got the go-ahead - despite objections from local residents. Longford County Council has given the ESB planning permission for the project. A battery energy storage system stores electrical energy in batteries for later use. The ESB wants to build one at the former Lough Ree Power Station in Lanesboro, on an 11-acre site. It would have up to 896 battery energy storage enclosures, in around 36 bays.
11 submissions were lodged during the planning process. One Lanesboro resident claimed the project would be very dangerous and would present a fire risk. A Ballyleague resident said the location of the facility is near a primary school and a residential area, where families and children gather. She said the battery plant could cause chemical leaks and other hazards that could affect the community and rivers. The council has, however, granted permission with 12 conditions.
