SSE has received planning permission from Cork County Council to extend the operational life of its Coomatallin Wind Farm near Drinagh, West Cork, by a further 20 years.

Originally consented in 2001 and commissioned in 2006 with an initial 20‑year operating limit, the four‑turbine site is now permitted to continue generating renewable electricity until 2046. The approval does not involve any increase in the number of turbines or their dimensions.

The move will maintain the wind farm's economic and social contributions to the area. Through the established Coomatallin Community Fund, SSE Renewables will keep supporting local initiatives; since 2006 the fund has distributed almost €290,000 to more than 150 projects. Ongoing commercial rates paid to Cork County Council will also continue to help fund local services, including roads, infrastructure and public services.

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As one of Ireland's earliest wind farms, Coomatallin has supplied renewable power for nearly two decades, generating enough each year to meet the equivalent demand of over 4,000 homes and helping to displace carbon dioxide emissions.

Ciaran Maguire, Onshore Wind O&M General Manager Ireland for SSE Renewables, said: "Coomatallin Wind Farm has contributed to clean energy production in Ireland for two decades, and with this life extension, it will continue playing its important role in renewable energy production to combat climate change. Importantly, due to this consent from Cork County Council, we can continue to provide direct benefits to the local community for many more years to come through our long-standing Community Benefit Fund and contributions to local service through ongoing commercial rates payments."