Bord Gáis Energy to Source 350 MW of Solar Power in Landmark Deal
Bord Gáis Energy is set to become Ireland’s largest solar power off-taker by 2025, thanks to a landmark agreement with Strategic Power Projects (SPP). This long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) enables SPP to develop a 1 GW solar energy pipeline across Ireland, beginning with an initial 350 MW from four key solar farms in counties Tipperary, Clare, and Offaly.
Expected to be operational by 2025, these solar farms will generate enough clean electricity to power an estimated 100,000 homes annually. The initiative, a key piece of Bord Gáis Energy news, marks a major step toward its goal of achieving 1 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Supported by the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS), these Bord Gáis Energy community solar projects are also projected to reduce Ireland’s carbon emissions by 200,000 tonnes each year, aligning with the nation’s rapid growth in solar energy. Discover more about Ireland’s solar energy growth.
Ireland’s Largest Solar PPA to Date
The agreement stands as Ireland’s largest solar PPA to date, marking a significant step in the country’s transition to renewable energy. This long-term PPA provides SPP with the financial security needed to develop its ambitious solar pipeline while bolstering Bord Gáis Energy’s efforts to grow its renewable energy portfolio. “This agreement marks a crucial step in our renewable energy journey. By acquiring solar power from Strategic Power Projects, we’re not only expanding our renewable energy portfolio but also reinforcing our commitment to a sustainable energy future for Ireland,” stated Colin Bebbington, Director of Energy, Marketing and Data at Bord Gáis Energy.
A 350 MW Boost to Ireland’s Solar Capacity
The four solar projects, slated for completion by 2025, will add 350 MW of clean energy to Ireland’s national grid—enough to power approximately 100,000 homes. This new capacity is also expected to reduce the country’s carbon emissions by 200,000 tonnes per year, advancing Ireland’s progress towards its renewable energy targets. For insights into Ireland’s solar panel manufacturing landscape.
The specific sites included in the agreement are the 100 MW Shanagolden Solar Farm in County Clare, the 100 MW Ballymackey Solar Farm in County Tipperary, the 75 MW Moneygall Solar Farm in County Offaly, and the 75 MW Mountlucas Solar Farm, also in County Offaly.
Their combined output will significantly enhance Ireland’s solar energy capacity and contribute to the 1.76 GW of total solar capacity anticipated by May 2025. Learn more about this projected growth.
Bord Gáis Energy’s Commitment to a Renewable Future
This partnership between Bord Gáis Energy and SPP is a pivotal moment in the company’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity. It’s a crucial component of its strategy to achieve 1 GW of renewable generation by 2030, contributing substantial clean energy to the grid and helping to reduce Ireland’s carbon footprint. Explore the benefits of solar energy in Ireland.
Developed by SPP, these projects will also be backed by the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS), a government initiative designed to incentivise such developments across the country. The RESS is instrumental in boosting Ireland’s renewable capacity and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. This partnership marks a major milestone in Ireland’s transition to a cleaner energy landscape, contributing to national renewable targets and a more sustainable future.
