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The ISEA addresses concerns about the impact of solar farms on Ireland's agricultural landscape. Meeting the government's solar targets will require just around 0.2% of Ireland’s agricultural land area, ensuring agricultural productivity is largely unaffected.

The ISEA notes the signing of the Planning and Development Bill 2023 into law by President Michael D. Higgins, following its passage through the Oireachtas. Once commenced, this will mark a significant overhaul of the planning framework in Ireland, replacing the Planning and Development Act 2000.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released its Renewables 2024 report, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of renewable energy. This report is not just a reflection of the progress we have made but also a blueprint for the future as we strive to meet global energy demands sustainably. As we delve into its findings, it's vital for stakeholders in the solar energy sector to grasp the implications for policy, investment, and technology.

On 26 September the CRU published its new Electricity Connection Policy – Generation and System Services (ECP-GSS), which brings major changes to how renewable energy projects like solar will connect to the grid in Ireland. This “new connections policy” will replace the Enduring Connection Policy (ECP-2), and it comes after extensive feedback from stakeholders, including ISEA, in a consultation earlier this year.

The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) engaged KPMG to assess the economic impacts of the solar energy industry in Ireland. Solar energy is now a significant contributor to Ireland's energy supply, providing renewable electricity to our homes, businesses, and the national grid.

As the Irish government unveils Budget 2025, the focus on renewable energy and sustainability becomes increasingly apparent. This year's budget holds significant potential to accelerate Ireland's renewable energy goals, particularly in the solar sector. However, critical areas require further attention to ensure a comprehensive transition to a low-carbon future.

As Ireland continues its journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, Budget 2025 offers a critical opportunity to advance the nation's solar ambitions. The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) recently presented its key recommendations for Budget 2025 to the government, emphasising the urgent need to reverse recent cuts to solar grants, review mixed signals in environmental taxation, and provide additional resources to key agencies and stakeholders driving the energy transition.

The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) welcomes the positive outcomes of the RESS 4 auction, a pivotal moment in progressing Ireland’s renewable energy journey. This auction represents another step forward for the solar industry, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Ireland’s clean energy future.

In the face of climate change and a growing population, innovative solutions like agrivoltaics offer a promising way to achieve both food security and renewable energy. Agrivoltaics involves the strategic placement of solar panels above or between crops, enabling the simultaneous cultivation of food and harvesting of solar energy. This practice not only maximises land use efficiency but also enhances crop yields, conserves water, and diversifies farmers' revenue streams.

Known for its historic 3.621 km track and extensive facilities, Mondello Park traditionally required considerable energy to operate. In partnership with Infinite Energy, they installed a solar PV system and supported the transition to electric vehicles. This collaboration highlights the potential of solar energy to transform the motorsport industry and reduce environmental impact.

Considering that over 1,000,000 rooftops in Ireland are suitable for solar panels, we believe that no rooftop should be left behind! Investing in a solar PV system is a significant step towards energy independence and sustainability. To ensure you get the most out of your system, it’s crucial to maintain it properly and optimise its efficiency.

The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) acknowledges the recent RTE Prime Time programme on the expansion of solar farms in Ireland, the use of agricultural land for solar farms, and the perceived conflict between food security and energy security, aired on 15th August 2024. We welcome the opportunity to clarify that solar energy and traditional farming can coexist effectively, benefiting both energy production and agriculture.