Irish Examiner Feature: Agrivoltaics and the Future of Farming and Solar in Ireland

A recent feature in the Irish Examiner explores the growing role agrivoltaics could play in supporting both farming and clean energy generation in Ireland.

The article examines how agrivoltaic systems - where solar and agriculture operate together on the same land - are being used internationally to strengthen farm resilience, improve land-use efficiency, support biodiversity, and generate renewable electricity alongside continued agricultural activity.

Speaking in the feature, Ronan Power highlighted the opportunity agrivoltaics presents for Ireland’s rural economy and energy transition.

“There is often a perception that solar takes land out of use, but the reality is the opposite,” Ronan noted. “With agrivoltaics, land remains productive, and solar infrastructure typically only uses a portion of the space, allowing farming activity to continue alongside energy generation.”

The piece also explores international research showing how well-designed agrivoltaic systems can improve water efficiency, diversify farm income, and increase overall land productivity in certain applications.

For Ireland, Ronan emphasised the importance of creating clear policy and planning frameworks that recognise dual land use and support farmers who want to integrate solar into working farmland.

“With the right framework in place, agrivoltaics can support farm viability, reduce emissions, and contribute to Ireland’s renewable energy targets at the same time.”

Read the full Irish Examiner feature here.