In Ireland, where agriculture is not only a livelihood but a substantial national economic contributor, the potential of solar energy presents a compelling opportunity for farmers to remove significant costs from their operations, secure long-term sustainability, and contribute to Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
With grants of 60% available on a system valued up to €90,000 and the removal of previous barriers, such as the need for planning permission and the inclusion of the farm dwelling, there has never been a better time for farmers to invest in solar.
Given the increased market for solar products and services, we are seeing a significant increase in solar solutions providers.
Knowing what they should expect from their solar provider can be challenging for farmers, as it’s a space many are only learning about.
IFA and Bord Gáis Energy combined have over 100 years of experience representing and supporting farmers and providing energy solutions to farms, homes, and businesses around Ireland.
Their combined specialist knowledge and experience means they understand the unique requirements of farm businesses more than most.
The team has installed 1,500 solar PV systems in Irish homes, farms, and businesses and has provided post-installation support to over 2,000 solar PV installations.
Solar energy
James Kelly, from IFA and Bord Gáis Energy Solar, outlines the considerations that farmers should weigh when contemplating solar investment.
- 1. Economic viability
Business decisions must be grounded in a thorough financial analysis.
IFA and Bord Gáis Energy provide expert guidance, conducting detailed cost-benefit analyses to ascertain the economic feasibility of solar investments.
We evaluate installation costs, potential savings on energy expenditure, available incentives, and the anticipated return on investment (ROI) over the system’s lifespan.
- 2. Financial facilitation
Accessing capital is paramount. IFA and Bord Gáis Energy are working with Ireland’s main lenders to ensure various financial mechanisms are available.
- 3. System design and sizing
One size does not fit all in solar energy. IFA and Bord Gáis Energy collaborate closely with farm businesses to devise bespoke solar energy systems aligned with their operational needs and objectives.
We account for available space, orientation, shading, and energy consumption profiles through detailed planning and surveying to optimise system size and configuration.
- 4. Scalability
Forward-thinking businesses anticipate growth. Farmers should plan for scalable solutions that accommodate future expansion or upgrades, ensuring solar systems remain aligned with evolving energy demands and technological advancements.
- 5. Minimal disruption
Your solar supplier should seamlessly integrate solar installations into existing business operations.
Our expert teams coordinate construction activities, minimising downtime and avoiding interference with the day-to-day running of a farm.
- 6. Compliance
Compliance is non-negotiable. We leverage our expertise to guide farmers through the TAMS and NC7 process.
It is important to note that all installations on farms must have prior approval from ESB Networks to connect to the electrical grid.
It is illegal to do otherwise; only qualified and reputable people and companies can perform these tasks.
- 7. Maintenance and lifecycle management
In many cases, your solar system will have a life cycle of 30 years. Like buying any product or service, comeback is critical.
Are you confident that the supplier you purchase from will be there in one, five, or even 15 years should a problem arise?
Your supplier must provide comprehensive maintenance and lifecycle management services to ensure your solar PV systems’ long-term performance and reliability.
IFA and Bord Gáis Energy use the highest-quality technology available, and their suppliers have been selected following an exhaustive tender process.
Additionally, our longevity in the market means that farmers can be completely confident that we will be there for the lifecycle of your system.
If you are interested in finding out more on IFA and Bord Gáis Energy’s solar solutions, and how you can turn your roof into a source of power, visit ifa.ie/solar or call 0818 989 498.
