Irish Women in Solar with Niamh Igoe
Every solar project begins long before the first panel is installed. Behind every successful development is careful planning, collaboration and perseverance. For Niamh Igoe, that's where she has found both purpose and fulfilment.
As Head of Planning at GP JOULE Ireland, Niamh has helped guide utility-scale solar projects from concept to consent, supporting Ireland's transition to a cleaner and more secure energy system. A Chartered Planner with qualifications in planning, development and environmental law, she combines technical expertise with a passion for delivering projects that create lasting environmental and community benefits.
Building the Foundations for Solar
Niamh was drawn to renewable energy because of the opportunity to make a tangible difference.
"I was inspired by the opportunity to work in an industry that is making a tangible difference in addressing climate change while contributing to Ireland's transition to renewable energy."
One of the milestones she is most proud of was securing planning permission for Blackhall Solar Farm, GP JOULE Ireland's first Irish project.
At the time, the Irish team consisted of just three people, making the achievement all the more significant.
"Achieving planning approval was a defining moment for us. It reinforced the value of teamwork, determination and perseverance, and showed that hard work truly does pay off."
That success marked the beginning of an exciting period of growth for the company and reinforced the impact that strong planning can have on delivering renewable infrastructure.
Women in Solar
Working in a traditionally male-dominated sector has, at times, required Niamh to work harder to establish her credibility. She has met those challenges by continuing to build her expertise, trusting her knowledge and letting the quality of her work speak for itself.
She believes diversity is fundamental to the future success of the industry.
"A more diverse workforce brings different perspectives, ideas, and approaches to problem-solving, which ultimately leads to better outcomes."
As Ireland's solar sector continues to grow, attracting more women into planning, engineering, finance and project delivery will not only help address skills shortages but also create a stronger, more representative industry. Her advice to women considering a career in renewable energy is simple.
"Go for it. Don't let preconceived ideas or stereotypes hold you back."
Looking Ahead
Niamh believes Ireland has enormous potential to expand its solar capacity, supported by continued investment in utility-scale projects, rooftop solar, battery storage and grid infrastructure. She is particularly excited by the growing role of battery energy storage alongside solar generation.
"Combining solar with energy storage allows renewable energy to be used more efficiently, improves grid stability, and helps maximise the value of clean electricity."
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue delivering high-quality solar projects while encouraging more people, particularly women, to consider careers in the sector.
Mentorship has also played an important role in her own journey. She credits GP JOULE Ireland's Managing Director, Ciaran Donnelly, for encouraging her to join the company in its early days in Ireland and for helping shape her professional development through his guidance, integrity and leadership.
As Ireland's renewable energy ambitions continue to grow, so too will the need for planners who can help turn policy into projects and ambition into action. Niamh's journey is a reminder that planning is not simply part of the process. It is one of the foundations on which Ireland's solar future will be built.