Ireland solar capacity journey: A remarkable surge
Ireland has achieved a noteworthy milestone in its solar energy journey, reaching an installed capacity of 1.76 GW as of July 1, 2024. This represents an impressive 160% increase from the previous year, as reported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). For further insights into Ireland’s solar journey, you can explore more detailed analyses on Ireland Solar News Archives.
The surge in capacity was fueled by the completion of over 90 large-scale projects, each boasting a capacity of at least 5 MW. These projects accounted for 55% of the total installed capacity, while the remaining 45% came from small-scale and rooftop solar installations. This remarkable growth has positioned Ireland as the fastest-growing solar market in Europe and the third fastest globally for two consecutive years. For more details, visit PVKnowhow.
Ireland solar capacity production on the rise
Ireland’s solar energy production has also seen substantial growth, with 1.5 TWh generated in 2024, marking a 150% increase from 2023. Solar power now contributes 5.4% of Ireland’s total energy production, up from 2.2% the previous year. This uptick in solar energy output is part of Ireland’s broader strategy to diversify its renewable energy sources and minimize its dependency on fossil fuels. A notable accomplishment in this journey was the 66 GWh output achieved in April 2025. More information can be found here.
Ireland solar capacity goals: Future plans and ambitions
The Irish government has announced plans to launch the next round of the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) in 2025. This program, pivotal in backing renewable energy projects, will be open to all types of renewable energy technologies. The government’s aim is to increase the share of renewables in the national energy mix to 55% by 2025, up from the current 45%.
Looking ahead, Ireland is targeting an installed solar capacity of 5 GW by 2027. This ambitious goal is part of the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The government is also working on a new review of the RESS program, anticipated to be completed by the end of the year, which will likely introduce stricter rules on grid connections to ensure efficient integration of future solar projects into the national grid.
A commitment to Ireland solar capacity and renewable energy
The rapid expansion of solar energy in Ireland is a testament to the country’s dedication to renewable energy and its efforts to combat climate change. With ongoing government support and a clear focus on long-term sustainability, Ireland is well on its way to becoming a leader in renewable energy in Europe. For more on Ireland’s solar energy advancements, visit PVKnowhow.
