Plans are underway for Northern Ireland's largest solar farm, a 500-acre project near Limavady. The facility aims to generate 80MW of clean electricity, enough to power 24,000 homes.

Developed by Renewable Energy Systems (RES), the project includes a 100MW battery storage system to help decarbonise the energy grid. RES, a global leader in renewables, has already built several wind farms locally.

A public consultation will be held at Roe Park Resort on June 26, from 4 to 8 pm, to discuss the plans.

To reach 80% renewable energy by 2030, Northern Ireland needs to speed up new projects. The renewables sector is urging for quicker planning approvals to meet this target.

Pauric McCloskey, development project manager for RES, said: “During a period of high energy bills, concerns about energy security and the ever-present threat of climate change, there has never been a greater need for projects like Glenhead.

“Due to the existing high levels of renewable generation in the north west, we anticipate that Glenhead will provide a significant opportunity for energy storage which will contribute to wider grid decarbonisation.

“We are holding a public exhibition in the local area to share more information about the proposal and look forward to getting input and feedback from local people to help inform the design.”