Small-scale solar photovoltaic power generation system installation in Ireland

Can I start a solar farm in Ireland?

As always, professional advice is required. Many of Ireland’s new solar farms receive 15-year Government support via the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme. However, the minimum size of solar farm which can qualify for this support is 500kW, or 2.5 acres worth of panels. This scale of an investment is out of reach for many farmers.

Can small-scale solar energy save money in Ireland?

Growth has surged since 2022, thanks to policy changes. Irish homes and businesses saved approximately €88 million on electricity costs in 2024 using small-scale solar energy systems of up to 50 kW, according to industry data. To date, more than 120,000 small-scale solar systems have been installed nationwide, with a combined capacity of 500 MW.

How many small-scale solar panels are there in Ireland?

To date, more than 120,000 small-scale solar systems have been installed nationwide, with a combined capacity of 500 MW. This is equivalent to more than one million panels now generating clean energy across Ireland’s rooftops.

How much solar power does Ireland have?

Currently, Ireland has 349MW of utility-scale solar (>5MW) connected to the grid from large solar farm projects. However, smaller solar farms and large commercial rooftop installations, which are still classed as utility-scale (1MW-5MW), generate just 22MW currently, highlighting a need for acceleration of projects in this band.

How will solar power impact the Irish energy industry?

Solar power is going to play a huge role in the future of the Irish energy industry, with at least 8GW of capacity to be delivered by 2030 according to current targets. This will come through multiple pipelines, from small scale self-consumption in rooftop solar on homes, farms, and small businesses, right up to utility scale solar farms.

What is the largest solar farm in Ireland?

The Lysaghtown Solar Farm in Co. Cork, owned by Power Capital Renewable Energy, will cover 373 acres and have a total export capacity of 131MW when it comes online, making it one of the largest solar farms in the country. The solar farm is currently under construction by French company Voltalia, and is expected to become operational in 2024. 6.