As we close 2024, Ireland has firmly cemented its place as a leader in Europe’s solar story. For the first time, we entered the ranks of GW-scale solar markets—a milestone that underscores the extraordinary potential of our sector and the collective efforts of policymakers, businesses, and communities.
With 1.2 GWdc of new solar capacity added this year, Ireland is on a clear trajectory toward its ambitious target of 80% renewable electricity by 2030.
The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) remains committed to supporting this progress, advocating for solutions that enable growth, address challenges, and deliver clean, sustainable energy for all.
This progress comes against the backdrop of the European solar sector’s resilience, as highlighted in the SolarPower Europe EU Market Outlook for Solar Power 2024-2028.
The report reveals that while 65.5 GW of new solar capacity was installed across the EU in 2024—a new record—annual growth slowed significantly to 4.4%, compared to the explosive rates seen in previous years.
Despite this slowdown, the EU’s total cumulative solar capacity has now reached 338 GW, with strong contributions from key markets like Germany, Spain, and Italy.
Ireland’s 2024 Solar Highlights
1. GW-Level Growth Achieved:
Ireland added 1.2 GWdc of new solar PV capacity in 2024, firmly placing us among Europe’s fastest-growing solar markets.
This milestone was driven by a combination of RESS auctions, corporate PPAs, and continued uptake in microgeneration.
2. Utility-Scale Solar Leads the Way:
Utility-scale solar has been the backbone of Ireland’s growth, supported by the success of the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS).
To date, RESS auctions have allocated 3.7 GWAC of capacity, with additional auctions planned to drive further deployment.
3. Rooftop Solar and Microgeneration Momentum:
Despite challenges, the residential and commercial rooftop sector continues to grow, supported by government incentives and an increasing focus on energy independence.
4. Key Projects Shaping the Sector:
Flagship projects such as the 200 MW Ballymacarney Solar Farm in County Meath showcase Ireland’s ability to deliver large-scale, impactful solar developments.
5. Global Recognition for Irish Solar:
Ireland joined the ranks of GW-scale solar markets in 2024—an achievement that reflects the resilience, innovation, and ambition of our solar industry.
The European Context: Ireland’s Role in the Bigger Picture
The SolarPower Europe EU Market Outlook for Solar Power 2024-2028 underscores the critical role of solar energy in achieving Europe’s decarbonisation goals. While growth slowed in 2024, the EU remains on track to meet its REPowerEU target of 750 GW of cumulative solar capacity by 2030 under its Medium Scenario. Key EU-wide insights include:
65.5 GW of solar PV installed in 2024, maintaining record levels despite a sharp 92% drop in growth compared to 2021-2023.
Utility-scale solar emerged as the dominant market segment, claiming 42% of total installations, while residential rooftop solar fell to 20%.
Investment challenges: Solar capital investments declined by 13% to €55 billion due to record-low module prices and reduced CAPEX for utility-scale projects.
Grid and flexibility issues remain the key bottlenecks across the EU, with grid congestion and lack of storage solutions slowing down progress.
Ireland’s progress in this context highlights our leadership in utility-scale deployment and our capacity to contribute meaningfully to Europe’s clean energy targets. By addressing challenges like grid infrastructure and storage, Ireland can further accelerate its impact.
Addressing Challenges: Unlocking Ireland’s Full Potential
While 2024 marked a year of progress, challenges remain that must be addressed to ensure continued growth:
1. Grid Infrastructure Bottlenecks:
Weak and outdated grid infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, is delaying project connections and increasing costs.
2. Permitting Delays:
Lengthy approval processes are slowing timelines for both rooftop and utility-scale projects.
3. Limited Storage and Flexibility:
Greater investment in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and grid flexibility is needed to accommodate growing solar capacity.
4. Declining Microgeneration Incentives:
Reductions in grants risk dampening momentum in the residential rooftop sector, requiring sustained support to keep this market vibrant.
Solutions and Recommendations for 2025 and Beyond
To keep Ireland’s solar sector on track for 8 GW by 2030, we must act decisively to address these challenges:
1. Invest in Grid Flexibility and Storage:
Support the creation of a Distribution Grids Facility to finance upgrades and modernisation.
Scale up battery storage solutions to provide flexibility, ensure system stability, and unlock further deployment.
2. Accelerate Electrification Across All Sectors:
Advocate for lower electricity taxes to drive renewable electrification in industry, transport, and heating.
Align with EU targets to achieve a 35% electrification rate by 2030.
3. Streamline Permitting Processes:
Ensure the full implementation of the RED III directive to simplify and accelerate project approvals.
Draw inspiration from successful case studies in Portugal and Greece.
4. Strengthen Support for Rooftop Solar:
Maintain and enhance microgeneration grants to encourage residential and commercial adoption.
Integrate rooftop solar into social housing plans, reducing energy costs for communities.
5. Foster Agrisolar and Biodiversity Initiatives:
Promote agrisolar solutions that combine renewable energy generation with sustainable farming practices.
Champion nature-inclusive solar parks to support biodiversity while delivering clean energy.
6. Secure Ireland’s Role in European Solar Manufacturing:
Advocate for EU-wide efforts to reshore manufacturing and develop resilient supply chains for modules, inverters, and components.
A Message from ISEA’s CEO, Conall Bolger
"2024 has been a transformative year for Ireland’s solar industry. Achieving GW-scale installations is a testament to the hard work of our members, forward-thinking policies, and growing public demand for clean energy solutions. ISEA will continue working with all stakeholders to address challenges like grid flexibility and permitting, ensuring solar energy powers Ireland’s clean future."
Looking Ahead to 2025
Ireland’s solar industry has proven its potential to lead the renewable energy transition. With a clear roadmap, strong policies, and continued collaboration, we can:
Deliver 8 GWAC of solar by 2030.
Drive down energy costs for households and businesses.
Create a cleaner, more resilient energy system for Ireland.
ISEA remains committed to supporting our members, advocating for solutions, and celebrating the successes of our sector as we look ahead to 2025.
Join us in driving Ireland’s solar future. Share your successes, get involved in ISEA initiatives, and let’s work together to make 2025 another year of record-breaking progress.
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