As local residents of Monivea, Ryehill, Abbeyknockmoy and the surrounding areas of County Galway, we are deeply concerned about the proposed solar development in our community.

While renewable energy is crucial for reducing carbon emissions, this project poses significant environmental and community concerns that cannot be overlooked. 

One of the primary issues is the environmental impact. Industrial scale solar , while generally seen as a green alternative, can significantly affect the local ecosystem. The construction and maintenance of these farms can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and an alteration in local flora and fauna. This development would impact the rich biodiversity that Monivea is known for and potentially disrupt local wildlife patterns.

Additionally, the development threatens the area's aesthetic landscape. Monivea is cherished for its picturesque scenery, which draws visitors and maintains the quality of life for its residents. The installation of large solar panels would undermine this natural beauty, turning vast areas of green land into industrial sites. 

Sustainability should not mean fencing off nature, tearing up wild habitats, or replacing open fields with miles of reflective panels and metal infrastructure. True sustainability respects both the planet and the places we call home. This proposal does neither.

We believe in a greener future that protects our countryside, not one that destroys it. Renewable energy must be pursued responsibly—by using rooftops, brownfield sites, and degraded land—not by sacrificing the green spaces that matter most to people and wildlife alike. This is not progress. It’s a mistake.

We call on those responsible, local government officials, and stakeholders to reconsider this development.  Please sign this petition to protect Monivea's environment, landscape, and agricultural land from the solar farm development. Together, we can make a difference in preserving the essence of our beloved community.