Press Release: New grid rules unlock solar and battery projects, but delivery must follow

Solar Ireland has welcomed a new decision by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) allowing renewable energy projects to share grid connections, describing it as a strong first step in enabling solar and battery projects to work together.

The decision allows co-located technologies, such as solar and battery storage, to operate behind a single grid connection. This supports more efficient use of existing infrastructure at a time when grid capacity remains one of the main constraints on Ireland’s energy system.

Ronan Power, CEO of Solar Ireland, said:

“This is a strong first step. It allows us to get more from the grid we already have and supports solar and battery projects working together. The next step is to build on this by enabling full hybrid systems and accelerating delivery, so we can turn this progress into projects on the ground.”

Ireland’s solar sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, with installed capacity now exceeding 2.5GW, an increase of over 280% since 2023, supporting homes, businesses and communities across the country.

Solar Ireland said the decision reflects the growing importance of combining renewable generation with storage to create a more flexible and resilient electricity system. The organisation noted that further work is already underway across industry and regulators to develop the next phase of hybrid energy frameworks.

“This is how modern energy systems evolve, step by step. We now have a clear direction, and it’s important that we continue to build on this momentum with the right frameworks and resources in place”, said Power.

Solar Ireland also emphasised the need for continued focus on delivery, including grid connections, planning timelines, and implementation.

“We are moving in the right direction. Now we need to move faster.”

The organisation said it looks forward to working with regulators, system operators, and government to support the next phase of hybrid renewable energy development in Ireland.

Read the decision in full: Decision on Sharing Maximum Export Capacity (MEC) behind a Single Connection Point | CRU.ie