Solar Power – Ireland’s Sustainability “Moon Shot”?

The sun shining through the clouds, ready to be used to generate solar power in Ireland.

In the second half of 2022, global sales of solar systems rose by 20%. In Ireland, the solar power industry is also “taking off like a rocket”, with almost 60,000 homes already generating solar power on their rooftops and 500 houses being connected to the grid every week. Working together, the government and businesses like ours can support Irish households in taking that leap of faith that will make this solar power “moon shot” a reality.

Shining a Light on Ireland’s Solar Boom: Your Guide to Going Green

A solar panel system installed by SolarSmart Energy Ltd.

There are many reasons for Ireland’s solar boom. The country has an abundance of sunlight, with an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. The government also offers generous incentives for solar energy, such as the Solar Electricity PV Grant and the Microgeneration Support Scheme. If you are thinking about going solar, there are a few things you need to know.

Solar PV for Social Housing

A bird's eye view of the retrofitted College View apartments with solar panels on them.

Solar PV on social housing could have a huge impact on the amount of energy vulnerable consumers would need to buy. Studies show that terraced houses are among the highest emitters of residential greenhouse gases. However, they are also among the easiest to retrofit with energy saving upgrades like solar. National and local government needs to act now to ensure that those most in need have an opportunity to share in a cheaper, greener, and more secure energy future.