Even in a Bad Year, Ireland Receives 70% of Madrid’s Solar Irradiation

The government recently published a National Plan, confirming the declining cost of PV technology at a global level has resulted in increased interest in solar PV technology in Ireland. It is generally agreed that the deployment of solar in Ireland has the potential to contribute to the country’s renewable energy targets. Solar can be deployed in roof-mounted or ground-mounted installations, and in this way it can empower communities to take control of their production and consumption of energy.

The government are putting in place renewable energy schemes to provide financial support for both wind and solar renewable electricity projects to increase encouragement and help Ireland reach their 2020 target. This comes with the caveat that, with the correct support, solar has the potential to become one of the most economically viable, renewable energy sources in the country. The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA), believe solar has been overlooked in Ireland with the focus placed on other renewable energy sources, particularly wind. This, in turn, could create additional benefits for Ireland such as: enabling the country to achieve its EU targets for climate and energy in 2020, and the EU 2030 Climate and Energy Framework, creating jobs, generating income for farmers, and supporting economic and social growth in both urban & rural areas. The government has committed to raising the amount of electricity generated from renewable sources from 30% now, to 70% by 2030.

Matthew Keane – Asset Manager