Press Release: EPA Figures Show Irish Consumers Embracing a Solar Future
Solar Ireland has welcomed the latest report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which shows electricity generation from solar increased by almost 50% in 2025, highlighting the growing role solar is playing in Ireland's electricity system.
According to the EPA’s report, ‘Ireland’s Provisional Greenhouse Gas Emissions, 1990-2025’1, solar now accounts for 4.4% of electricity generated in Ireland, increasing by 49.7% in 2025, while renewables provided 5.8% more electricity in 2025
CEO of Solar Ireland Ronan Power says these figures, alongside multiple records that have been broken in recent months, demonstrate that Irish consumers have truly warmed to solar:
“These official figures confirm what our members have been seeing across the country for some time. More households, farms and businesses are choosing solar because it gives them greater control over their energy costs while contributing to Ireland's transition to cleaner, homegrown electricity.
"The EPA report, together with the continued support available through grants and other incentives, should give people confidence that solar is now a proven technology delivering real benefits across Ireland”.
While awareness of solar continues to grow, some common misconceptions still remain. To help people make informed decisions, Solar Ireland has reviewed five common claims about rooftop solar and what the evidence says.
Myth 1: ‘Solar only works in Ireland in the summer’
Ireland has broken multiple solar generation records since April this year, demonstrating just how much electricity solar can produce during long, bright summer days. But solar panels don't only work in summer. They generate electricity from daylight rather than heat or direct sunshine, meaning they continue producing electricity throughout the year, including during winter and on cloudy days.
Myth 2: ‘My roof has to face south’
Many roofs are suitable for solar, even if they don't face south. East- and west-facing roofs can also perform well, while installers assess factors such as roof orientation, pitch, shading and available space before recommending the most appropriate system.
Myth 3: ‘It’s no good in a power cut’
Most grid-connected solar systems automatically switch off during a power cut to protect engineers working on the electricity network. However, some battery storage systems that include backup functionality can continue powering selected circuits during an outage. If backup power is important , householders should discuss this with an installer when designing your system.
Myth 4: ‘Solar is too expensive’
Irish consumers have a range of potential options to help ease the transition to solar energy:
- Solar Electricity Grant of up to €1800, administered by SEAI
- 0% tax rate on solar panel purchases and installations on private homes
- Businesses and farms also have grant opportunities available
- The Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme
Myth 5: ‘Solar panels stop working after a couple of decades’
Most solar panels come with performance warranties of around 25 to 30 years, but that doesn't mean they suddenly stop working when the warranty ends. Instead, they gradually produce slightly less electricity over time. After 25 years, homeowners may also wish to review their system, particularly as solar technology continues to improve and household energy needs evolve.
Ronan Power believes solar will greatly expand its role as a major driver of Ireland's transition to renewable energy: “Solar is becoming an increasingly important part of Ireland's energy future. As well as helping reduce emissions, it gives households and businesses greater control over their electricity costs and supports a more secure, resilient energy system.
"The technology has matured significantly over the past decade. The question is no longer whether solar works in Ireland, but how we can ensure more people have the opportunity to benefit from it."
1. Ireland’s Provisional Greenhouse Gas Emissions 1990-2025