Ireland Solar Report

Total installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity in Ireland was approximately 738 MW.⁷

Ireland aims to achieve a total Ireland solar panel production capacity of 8 GW by 2030.⁸

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• Natural gas – 0.18 $/kWh
• Coal – 0.14 $/kWh
• Wind power – 0.91 $/kWh
• Solar power – 0.078 $/kWh

In 2023, the electricity generation mix in Ireland was as follows: ^1113141516

• Natural Gas: 46.6%
• Wind: 34%
• Coal: 7%
• Peat: 4%
• Solar: 1.2%
• Hydropower and Other Renewables: 4.9 % combined
• Interconnectors (imports): 11.3%

The average daily availability of electricity from the national grid in Iceland is 24 hours, with minimal outages. Typically, the grid operates effectively, but periods of peak demand can strain resources, leading to system alerts. These alerts indicate tight capacity margins but do not usually result in widespread outages.¹⁷

Currently, over 94,000 households in Ireland have solar panels installed, an increase of 20,000 since 2023.¹⁸

As of 2024, Ireland has 13 operational solar farms contributing a total of 594 MW to the grid. Additionally, there are several large-scale solar projects under construction and planned, including notable projects like Clonfad Solar Farm (175 MW) and Garrenleen Solar Farm (160MW), among others.¹⁸¹⁹²⁰

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As of 2024, approximately 95 MW of solar capacity is generated from off-grid systems, primarily for self-consumption by households and businesses.

While recent government initiatives, such as the removal of VAT on solar PV panel supply and installation, the elimination of planning permission requirements, and the availability of grants, have increased support for solar energy adoption, significant challenges remain.

Many off-grid solar users face barriers to grid connection due to the limited capacity of the current electricity grid, which often cannot accommodate energy from new solar installations, resulting in fewer connection options for small-scale producers.

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The demand for solar panels in Ireland’s on-grid market includes 594 MW from large solar farms and 373 MW from residential rooftop installations. By the end of 2024, Ireland’s solar capacity is expected to reach 1,600 MW.

Government incentives, such as VAT exemptions and grants, have boosted adoption, with the Microgeneration Support Scheme providing over 16,000 grants to homeowners and 1,700 to businesses. The expansion of utility-scale projects, supported by the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), is driving the shift to larger installations. These developments are helping meet energy needs and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 270,000 tons annually.

• The average renewable energy monthly salary in Ireland is approximately $5,028. ²³
• Solar Engineer: the average monthly salary is approximately $3,216. ²⁴
• Solar Energy Installer: the average monthly salary is approximately $2,043. ²⁵
• Solar Energy Systems Engineer: the average monthly salary is approximately $6,397. ²⁶

The current population of Ireland is 5,274,675. ²⁷

Estimate for Factory Rent ²⁸

In Ireland, average monthly rents for industrial and logistics properties vary by location and size, with prime rents in Dublin reaching around $145 per square meter in mid-2023.

Industrial Electricity Rates ²⁹

Industrial electricity rates in Ireland vary based on usage and contract type. Typical rates are $0.26 – $0.29 per kWh, with standing charge $0.37 – $1.05 daily for small to medium businesses, while larger businesses may face higher standing charges of up to $6.87 daily.

Water Costs ³⁰

In Ireland, water rates for businesses are categorized into metered and unmetered accounts:

• Metered Accounts: Charges are based on actual water usage, with standing and volumetric charges. For annual consumption under 1,000 m³, the standing charge is approximately $46.26 and the volumetric charge is $1.98 per m³. Rates decrease as consumption increases.
• Unmetered Accounts: These incur a flat-rate charge, typically around $275.22 annually for smaller businesses.

Salaries and Wages ²⁴²⁵²⁶

Monthly salaries of workers in solar industry in Ireland ranges from $2,043 to $6,397, depending on the position.

Rent for Office Space ³¹

As of the second quarter of 2023, the average monthly rent for prime office space in Dublin, Ireland, is approximately $61.63 per square meter

Insurance ³²

The average spending per capita for non-life insurance in Ireland is estimated to be $2,057 in 2024.

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Energy Mix

Ireland’s energy mix is increasingly dominated by renewable sources, with a target set for 80% of electricity to come from renewables by 2030. As of June 2024, approximately 33.53% of the Republic of Ireland’s electricity demand was met by renewables, primarily from wind and solar energy.

Key Institutions

The primary institution overseeing Ireland’s energy infrastructure is EirGrid, which manages the electricity grid and is responsible for ensuring a reliable supply of electricity.

Additionally, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) regulates the electricity and gas markets, while the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) promotes sustainable energy practices.

Infrastructure and Interconnections

The current system non-synchronous penetration (SNSP) limit allows for up to 75% of electricity from renewables at any one time. There are ongoing efforts to enhance grid flexibility through battery storage projects, with operational capacity expected to reach 13.5 GWh by 2030.

Ireland is also connected to Great Britain via the East-West Interconnector, facilitating electricity trade and enhancing energy security.

Export / Import

Ireland’s energy landscape shows a significant reliance on imports for fossil fuels. In 2021, around 151,074 GWh of energy was imported, primarily consisting of oil and natural gas.

The government aims to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels while increasing domestic renewable generation.

Policy Goal

The policy goal for Ireland’s energy sector is encapsulated in the Climate Action Plan, which targets achieving 80% renewable electricity generation by 2030 and aims for net-zero emissions by 2050.

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National Standards and Codes of Practice

Standard Recommendation (S.R. 55): The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) has developed guidelines for the design and installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems classified as micro-generators (up to 6 kVA). These standard supports compliance with national climate action targets and ensures safe installations.

Code of Practice for Installers: The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has published a Code of Practice for installers, ensuring that all elements of solar PV systems comply with applicable Irish legislation and building regulations. 

Planning Permission Exemptions

As of October 2022, homeowners can install an unlimited number of rooftop solar panels without needing planning permission. This regulation applies to most residential properties and aims to encourage the adoption of solar energy across the country. The exemption extends beyond homes to include: apartment buildings, businesses, industrial premises, farms, community facilities and sports grounds.

Certain areas, known as Solar Safeguarding Zones, require planning permission for larger installations due to potential aviation safety concerns. However, even within these zones, rooftop installations are generally exempt from planning permission as long as they do not exceed 300 m².

Installation Guidelines

While there are no limits on the area of solar panels for residential rooftops, specific setback distances from the edges of roofs must be maintained:

• Bottom edge: 50 cm from the roof edge
• Top edge: 25 cm from the ridge line
• Side edges: 50 cm from open ends (no requirement for adjoining properties

For solar panels mounted on the ground, planning permission is not required if:

• The height is less than 2 meters.
• The installation does not reduce private open space to less than 25 m²

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Solar Electricity Grant

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers a Solar Electricity Grant for homeowners. This grant provides up to $2,213 for the installation of solar PV panels on homes built and occupied before 2021. The grant amount increases based on the peak power output of the installed solar panel system:

• $843 for each kWp up to 2kWp
• $263 for each additional kWp up to 4kWp
• Maximum grant capped at $2,213 in 2024 (reduced from $2,529 in 2023).

Non-Domestic Microgeneration Scheme

For businesses and non-domestic applicants, the government has expanded the Non-Domestic Microgeneration Scheme. The grant amounts for solar PV installation vary based on the size of the solar system, ranging from $2,845 (3 kWp) to $171,336 (1,000 kWp).

VAT Reduction

In May 2023, the government removed VAT on solar installations and components, making solar PV systems more affordable.

Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS)

For farmers, the TAMS 3 program offers grants of up to 60% of the cost of a solar energy project, with a maximum of $94,836.

Low-Interest Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme

Introduced in 2024, this scheme offers low-interest loans of up to $79,030 for energy upgrades, including solar panel installations, under the SEAI’s National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme.

Small-Scale Renewable Energy Support Scheme (SRESS)

The government has introduced SRESS to provide support for renewable electricity installations that don’t fit into other schemes. It offers increased financial incentives and fixed tariffs for small-scale wind and solar projects, including a 20% higher tariff for grid-scale community solar installations.

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Gallanstown Solar Farm (198 MW)

• Location: Co. Meath
• Status: Active, operational since 2022.
• Details: Owned by Octopus Renewables, this is currently the largest solar farm in Ireland, covering 500 acres and capable of powering approximately 56,000 homes.

Clonfad Solar Farm (175 MW)

• Location: Co. Westmeath
• Status: Under construction.
• Details: Managed by Statkraft, this project will feature over 300,000 solar panels and is set to be one of the largest solar farms in Ireland upon completion.

Garrenleen Solar Farm (160 MW)

• Location: Co. Carlow
• Status: Under construction.
• Details: This project is owned by Ørsted and will be delivered in two phases, with the first phase expected to come online in 2025.

Highfield Solar Projects (132 MW total)

• Locations: Various sites in Ireland.
• Status: Recently financed for construction.
• Details: Includes two new projects, Clonin North (70 MW) and North Arklow (62 MW), aimed at contributing to Ireland’s renewable energy targets.

Solas Eireann 7 Ltd. (50 MW)

• Location: Near Ballinknockane, Co. Kerry
• Status:
• Details: This project aims to support local communities while generating substantial power.

Garr Solar Farm (141 MW)

• Location: Offaly
• Status:
• Details: Developed by Neoen, this project is expected to be operational by 2028.

Lysaghtstown Solar Farm (131 MW)

• Location: Cork
• Status: Under construction with an expected completion in 2024.
• Details: Owned by Power Capital Renewable Energy and constructed by Voltalia.

Straboe Solar Farm (95 MW)

• Location: Carlow
• Status: Set to commence in 2025.
• Details: This project will utilize advanced technologies like bifacial solar panels and tracking systems to maximize efficiency.

Power Capital Ireland Solar PV Park

• Power Capital Ireland Solar PV Park 1 (400 MW) – Expected operational by 2026.
• Power Capital Ireland Solar PV Park 2 (240 MW) – Expected operational by 2026.
• Power Capital Ireland Solar PV Park 3 (230 MW) – Currently under construction, expected completion in 2024.

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Electric Ireland Solar Panel

• Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
• Website: https://electricireland.ie
• Details: A leading provider of solar panel installations, Electric Ireland offers a range of energy solutions including solar PV systems tailored for both residential and commercial clients.

Solartricity

• Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
• Website: https://solartricity.ie/
• Details: Specializes in solar energy solutions, Solartricity is known for its innovative approach to solar panel installations and energy efficiency improvements.

Pinergy

• Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
• Website: https://pinergy.ie/home-electricity/solar/
• Details: Focuses on providing high-quality solar panel systems and services for residential and commercial properties, emphasizing sustainability and energy savings.

Alternative Energy Ireland

• Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
• Website: https://alternativeenergy.ie
• Details: This company offers a variety of renewable energy solutions including solar PV installations and energy storage systems, catering to both homes and businesses.

NRG Panel

• Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
• Website: https://nrgpanel.ie
• Details: A prominent installer of solar panels and heat pumps, NRG Panel is recognized for its commitment to enhancing energy efficiency with over 8,000 successful installations.

LVP Renewables

• Headquarters: County Kerry, Ireland
• Website: https://lvprenewables.ie
• Details: Specializes in solar PV systems and battery storage solutions for residential and commercial clients, promoting sustainable energy practices.

PureVolt Solar

• Headquarters:Cork, Ireland
• Website:https://purevolt.ie
• Details:Known for its transparent pricing and customer service, PureVolt Solar provides tailored solar panel installation services along with assistance in securing government grants.

Eco Horizon Solar

• Headquarters:Dublin, Ireland
• Website:https://ecohorizon.ie
• Details:Focuses on advanced solar technology installations for homes and businesses, offering significant savings on electricity costs through efficient solar systems.