SSE and FuturEnergy Ireland have announced the start of pre-construction works on the 58MW Drumnahough Wind Farm in County Donegal, with full construction due to begin in the coming weeks.

The €120 million project, co-developed by SSE Renewables and FuturEnergy Ireland, represents a major step in advancing Ireland's Climate Action Plan and renewable energy commitments. When completed, the wind farm will help the State progress towards its 2030 renewables and decarbonisation targets, while also supporting national energy security goals.

Located 13 kilometres from Letterkenny, the Drumnahough Wind Farm will comprise 12 turbines, a substation, and access roads across the townlands of Treankeel, Meenadaura, Carrickalangan and Cark. The site is situated close to the partners’ existing Lenalea Wind Farm, which became operational in late 2023, as well as SSE’s Culliagh and Meentycat wind farms.

Civil engineering works will commence once the current round of pre-construction activity concludes, with around 60 full-time direct and indirect jobs expected at the peak of construction. SSE has confirmed that local contractors and suppliers from Donegal and the North-West will be engaged wherever possible.

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Over its operational lifetime, the wind farm will contribute millions of euro to Donegal County Council through commercial rates, supporting local infrastructure and public services. In addition, a community benefit fund will be established in consultation with local residents to promote community development, energy efficiency, climate action and other regional initiatives.

Heather Donald, Director of Onshore Wind, Solar, Battery (GB & Ireland) at SSE Renewables, said: "We're delighted to be announcing that Drumnahough Wind Farm will be entering construction shortly. Delivery of this project is the next critical step we’re taking at SSE with our co-development partners FuturEnergy Ireland to turn Ireland's ambitions for climate action and energy security into reality.

"We look forward to working closely with our supply chain partners and key contractors to safely and efficiently deliver this vital new wind farm. And in doing so, we plan to deliver an important boost to Donegal's economy, local supply chain and communities, both during construction and when it enters operation."

Mary Lynch, Delivery Director at FuturEnergy Ireland, added: "The start of construction is a landmark moment for this project, which brings together the expertise of FuturEnergy Ireland and SSE. Drumnahough Wind Farm exemplifies how strategic collaboration can deliver meaningful progress in pursuit of Ireland’s climate and energy goals.

"This renewable energy project will also create tangible benefits for the local community and economy. From supporting jobs to investing in community initiatives through the community benefit fund, Drumnahough Wind Farm wants to create a lasting positive legacy in Donegal.

"As we move into the construction phase, our top priorities are the safe and sustainable delivery of this project in close partnership with our contractors and suppliers, ensuring the local community remains informed and engaged throughout the process."

Two public information events will take place next month for residents and local businesses to meet the project team and learn more about the upcoming construction phase. The sessions will be held at Jackson’s Hotel, Ballybofey, on Wednesday, 10 December, and at Foxhall Community Hall, Newmills, Letterkenny, on Thursday, 11 December, from 2:30pm to 7:30pm each day.