Welcome to the second edition of our Scale of Solar Report, marking the second European Solar Day on 21 June—celebrated on the brightest and longest day of the year. This day is a moment of collective action as we come together to celebrate the power and potential of the sun.
Celebrating Solar Progress in Ireland
We are excited to introduce ISEA’s 2nd Scale of Solar Report, highlighting the remarkable progress solar energy is making in Ireland. In the past year alone, Ireland’s solar capacity has grown from 680MW in 2023 to an impressive 1,185MW in 2024. This expansion is equivalent to powering 280,000 homes annually and reducing carbon emissions by 270,000 tonnes, and includes a significant contribution from domestic rooftops, which now provide 373MW of solar energy.
Key Findings from the Report
Rapid Growth: 505MW—42.6% of the total—was delivered in the last 12 months alone, demonstrating the immense potential and rapid expansion of solar energy in Ireland.
Utility Scale Solar Farms: Large solar farms (>5MW) now provide 594MW, up from 349MW in 2023.
Mini-Generation: Solar capacity from businesses and farms increased to 26MW from 5MW.
Microgeneration: Domestic rooftops saw a substantial 80% rise, reaching 373MW, up from 208MW in 2023.
Forecast: ESB Networks forecasts almost 1,600MW of solar connected by the end of 2024, aiming to add 400MW in the next six months.
The Role of Solar in Ireland’s Renewable Future
Solar energy is becoming a fundamental part of Ireland's electricity system. Our report details contributions from large solar farms to individual household installations, showcasing the transformative impact of solar on electricity production and climate action.
Conall Bolger, CEO of ISEA, highlighted the transformative impact of solar on Ireland's electricity production.
"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."
Educating the Next Generation
Alongside celebrating these achievements, we recognise the importance of educating younger audiences about solar energy. By exploring its history and incredible potential to shape our energy system, we aim to inspire the next generation to embrace and advocate for renewable energy solutions.
Acknowledgements
This report wouldn't be possible without the collective efforts of various stakeholders. A heartfelt thank you to:
ESB Networks
Green Collective
Minister Eamon Ryan
Department of Environment, Climate and Communications
Our dedicated members
Read the Full Report
We invite you to delve into the details of our 2024 Scale of Solar Report and join us in celebrating this progress on European Solar Day.