Biodiversity and the Environment
A strong and resilient environment is crucial for the long-term sustainability of all areas. At Statkraft Ireland, we strive to deliver the renewable energy our country and climate needs, while also protecting biodiversity at its most vulnerable. Incorporating environmentally sustainable measures into the project design when we are developing our renewable energy projects is always our goal. Biodiversity management plans are developed for all projects in Ireland, as well as a SAP, where biodiversity plays a crucial role.
Statkraft Ireland embeds strong biodiversity protection into every stage of project development, incorporating significant ecological measures from the design phase and managing all operational sites in line with the All‑Ireland Pollinator Plan to enhance pollinator habitats. This approach is supported by Statkraft’s mitigation hierarchy, which prioritises avoiding ecological impacts, reducing unavoidable effects and restoring or enhancing habitats, while also preventing development in critical or protected areas and managing invasive species risk.
Biodiversity In Action: Cushaling Case Study
As part of our commitment to biodiversity and community value, the project includes the development of a dedicated Biodiversity Park with public access. This space is designed not only to enhance local ecological value through native planting and habitat creation, but also to serve as an educational and recreational amenity for the surrounding community.
In parallel, an amenity trail has been constructed as part of the wind farm development, offering residents and visitors a safe and scenic route through the landscape. These initiatives reflect a dual-purpose approach, supporting biodiversity enhancement while fostering stronger community connections to the land and the renewable energy infrastructure it hosts.
Environmental risks associated with peatland areas were carefully managed throughout the project. Sensitive zones were identified early and avoided wherever possible.
Along with the above and to support both environmental goals and local wellbeing during the final construction phase at Cushaling Wind Farm, hybrid generators were introduced, reducing carbon emissions while ensuring quieter, cleaner energy delivery for nearby communities.