The Irish Solar Energy Association shared its second Scale of Solar Report on June 21st, the second European Solar Day.
The Day calls on the renewable sector and beyond to celebrate the impact and potential of solar energy during the summer solstice (the longest day of the year).
To introduce the report, ISEA shared that Ireland’s solar capacity had grown staggeringly from 680MW to 1,1185MW over the last year – equivalent to powering 280,000 homes per annum. Carbon emissions were reduced by 270,000 tonnes, with domestic rooftops contributing 373MW of solar energy.
The report contains information on the contributions of both large solar farms and individual domestic installations, to demonstrate the collaborative impact of large and small efforts on climate action.
The ISEA additionally noted that it hopes that by “celebrating these achievements”, younger audiences will become invested in solar energy:
“We aim to inspire the next generation to embrace and advocate for renewable energy solutions.”
Highlights
Rapid Growth: In the last 12 months alone, 505MW—42.6% of the total—was delivered, highlighting the significant potential and swift expansion of solar energy in Ireland.
Utility Scale Solar Farms: Large solar farms (over 5MW) now generate 594MW, up from 349MW in 2023.
Mini-Generation: Solar capacity from businesses and farms has increased to 26MW, rising from 5MW.
Microgeneration: Domestic rooftop solar installations saw an impressive 80% increase, reaching 373MW, up from 208MW in 2023.
Forecast: ESB Networks projects nearly 1,600MW of solar capacity by the end of 2024, with plans to add 400MW in the next six months.
Conall Bolger says: “In just two years since the first solar farm was energised, Ireland now boasts 13 solar farms on the grid, supplying 594MW with more under construction. Notably, individual householders investing in rooftop solar panels have contributed 373MW, underscoring Ireland’s commitment to climate action.
“Today, on the longest day of the year, solar energy will benefit over 94,000 homes, with an average of 65 homes daily joining the solar revolution.”
The full report can be found here.
