Ireland solar electricity generation reaches record high
Ireland generated a record 66 GWh of solar electricity in April 2025, surpassing the previous high of 64 GWh set in May 2024. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the country’s renewable energy sector, reflecting the successful implementation of solar projects under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). This progress underscores Ireland’s commitment to renewable energy and its strategic vision to enhance sustainability and reduce its carbon footprint.
Ireland solar electricity output surpasses previous records
The new record was reported by the Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA), which noted that the 66 GWh generated in April 2025 exceeded the previous record of 64 GWh set in May 2024. This increase in solar electricity generation is partly attributed to the addition of several new solar farms in counties Carlow, Wexford, and Limerick, which have contributed an additional 60 MW of capacity to the national grid. This expansion is part of Ireland’s broader strategy to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and increase its use of renewable energy sources.
According to David Maguire, CEO of Elgin Energy, solar energy’s contribution to the grid serves as a key indicator of the sector’s growth and the country’s progress toward energy independence. He emphasized that solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in meeting Ireland’s energy needs, thereby reducing the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and contributing to the national goal of achieving energy security.
The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) highlighted the importance of solar energy in the country’s energy mix, noting that solar energy is now a significant contributor to the grid. The association pointed out that the record-breaking generation in April is a testament to the rapid growth of the solar energy sector in Ireland, which has been driven by supportive government policies and increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
Ireland solar electricity boosts national energy independence
The record generation of solar electricity in April 2025 is a significant milestone in Ireland’s journey toward energy independence. Solar energy now accounts for a growing share of the country’s electricity supply, thereby reducing the need for imported fossil fuels. This shift is expected to have long-term benefits for Ireland’s economy, as it reduces the country’s vulnerability to fluctuations in global energy prices and strengthens its position as a leader in renewable energy.
David Maguire of Elgin Energy highlighted the importance of solar energy in Ireland’s energy future, stating that the record generation in April is just the beginning. He noted that with continued investment and innovation, solar energy will play an even larger role in Ireland’s energy mix in the coming years. Maguire also emphasized the importance of government support in the form of initiatives like the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, which has been instrumental in driving the growth of the solar energy sector in Ireland.
The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) has been a key factor in the growth of solar energy in Ireland. The scheme, which provides financial support to renewable energy projects, has encouraged the development of new solar farms across the country. The success of RESS-supported projects has demonstrated the viability of solar energy as a major contributor to Ireland’s electricity supply, paving the way for further expansion of the sector.
The future of Ireland solar electricity and renewable growth
The record generation of 66 GWh of solar electricity in April 2025 is a clear indication of the potential for further growth in Ireland’s solar energy sector. With continued investment and supportive government policies, the country is well-positioned to achieve its renewable energy targets and reduce its carbon footprint. The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) predicts that solar energy will continue to play an increasingly important role in Ireland’s energy mix, helping the country to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The continued growth of solar energy in Ireland is expected to bring numerous benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, increased energy security, and the creation of new jobs in the renewable energy sector. As Ireland continues to expand its solar energy capacity, it will also contribute to the global effort to combat climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the use of clean, renewable energy sources.
For more information on Ireland’s solar energy prospects, visit PV Knowhow, which provides insights into Ireland’s solar energy targets and projected growth. Additionally, explore the benefits of solar energy in Ireland and how they contribute to a sustainable future.
The record-breaking generation of solar electricity in April 2025 is a significant milestone for Ireland’s renewable energy sector. With the ongoing support of government initiatives like the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme and continued investment in solar energy infrastructure, Ireland is on track to achieve its goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy and a model for other countries seeking to transition to a low-carbon economy.
