Blog Article

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular on Irish farms including Meath, Offaly, Laois, Tipperary, Carlow, Wexford and Kildare, offering a sustainable way to reduce energy costs while powering essential machinery. By converting sunlight into free electricity, solar PV systems help dairy, cattle, and tillage farmers cut their reliance on the grid. With grants like TAMS 3 available to offset installation costs, making the switch to renewable energy is more affordable than ever. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits, costs, and support available to help farmers embrace solar power in 2025.

Benefits of Solar Panels for Farms in Ireland

Farming requires a substantial amount of energy to power machinery, lighting, and daily operations. Onfarms for example in Kildare, Wexford, Tipperary, Carlow and Offaly, solar panels offer an ideal solution by providing a sustainable and cost-effective way to generate electricity.

✅ High Energy Demand on Farms – Machinery, lighting, and daily operations require significant electricity.

✅Cost-Effective Solution – Solar PV allows farmers to generate their own power and reduce reliance on the grid.

✅Peak Performance – Solar works best from late March to early October, making it ideal for robotic dairy, poultry, and pig farms.

✅Lower Electricity Costs – Solar panels can significantly cut energy bills, with a payback period as short as four years.

✅Government Grants Available – SEAI and TAMS grants help reduce installation costs, while accelerated capital allowances provide financial benefits.

✅Sustainability Benefits – Solar energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels, supporting eco-friendly farming practices.

✅Flexible Installation Options – Battery storage and ground-mounted systems allow farmers to maximize energy efficiency.

✅Long-Term Investment – With minimal maintenance, solar panels provide long-term savings and protection against rising carbon taxes.

How Much Do Solar Panels for Farms Cost in Ireland in 2025?

The cost of installing solar panels on a farm varies based on factors like farm size and energy requirements. On average, farmers in Southeast Ireland can expect installation costs to range between €15,000 and €60,000, depending on the system size. With available supports such as the TAMS 3 Grant, these costs can be significantly reduced, allowing many farmers to achieve a return on investment within 5 to 7 years.

Key Cost Factors:

• Farm Size & Energy Use: Larger dairy farms with high electricity demands require bigger systems, while smaller tillage farms can benefit from more compact, cost-effective solutions.
• Panel Efficiency: Higher-efficiency panels may have a larger upfront cost but deliver greater long-term savings. Farms in the Southeast enjoy strong sunlight conditions, enhancing energy generation and reducing overall costs.

Help with Solar for Your Farm: What Grants Are Available?

Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Schemes (TAMS 3):

 The TAMS 3 Grant provides 60% of installation costs up to €90,000. Southeast farmers of all types, dairy, beef, tillage can apply.

SEAI Grants for Farmers

The SEAI Non-Domestic Microgen Scheme makes it easier than ever with grants covering up to 30% of solar PV installation. Farmers in Southeast Ireland, no matter the size of your operation, can benefit. Discover how you can make solar a reality for your farm by visiting the SEAI website for more information on business grants.

Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) for Energy Efficiency

The Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) is a government-backed initiative in Ireland that supports businesses investing in energy-efficient equipment. This scheme allows businesses to claim 100% tax relief in the first year on qualifying purchases, helping to lower energy costs while promoting sustainability.

Whether you're a company, sole trader, or farmer, the ACA makes switching to energy-efficient technology more affordable and financially beneficial.

How Solar Helps Different Farms

No matter what type of farm you run, solar energy can help you save on electricity and operate more efficiently:

✅ Beef & Cattle Farms – Ensure a reliable energy source for day-to-day operations.

✅ Dairy Farms – Lower costs by powering milking systems and cooling units with solar.
✅ Tillage Farms – Use solar for irrigation, storage, and maximize land with ground-mounted systems.
✅ Poultry Farms – Cut energy bills and maintain a stable power supply for poultry houses.

Farm Solar Installation: What to Expect

We've got plenty of experience helping farmers in Southeast Ireland switch to solar. Here's how we ensure a reliable and efficient installation:

• Energy Assessment: Our team will come to your farm to assess your energy use and identify the best location for your solar setup.
• Detailed Proposal: You'll receive a custom proposal outlining installation costs, projected savings, and a clear timeline.
• Professional Installation: We'll handle the installation process with expertise, minimizing disruption to your farm's operations.
• Continued Support: While solar panels require minimal upkeep, we provide ongoing support to keep your system performing optimally.

FAQ

Q: What are the benefits of installing solar panels on farms in Ireland?

A: Going solar can slash your energy bills, boost your farm's self-sufficiency, and deliver long-term savings. Plus, it's a green move that helps reduce your carbon footprint, and you can take advantage of government grants!

Q: Are there government grants or incentives for solar panels for farms in Ireland?

A: Absolutely! The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) offers solar PV grants, among other programs, to help cover part of the installation costs.

Q: How much can a farm save by switching to solar energy?

A: It depends on your farm's size and energy use, but many farmers see

big savings, sometimes up to 70% on their electricity bills!

Q: What size of solar panel system is suitable for my farm?

A: We need to look at your energy needs and available space. A consultation with a solar expert will help you figure out the best system size.

Q: How long does it take to install solar panels on a farm?

A: Usually between 1 and 3 days for standard systems, but it can vary depending on the size and your farm's setup.

Q: Can solar panels work during the cloudy or rainy days in Ireland?

A: Yes, they still produce power, just not as much as on sunny days. Modern panels are built to handle our Irish weather.

Q: Can solar panels power all the energy needs of my farm?

A: With the right size system, you can significantly offset your electricity usage. In some cases, large systems can cover all your energy needs.

Q: Are there financing options available for solar panel installations?

A: Yes, many providers offer financing to spread the costs. Plus, those government grants help a lot!

Q: What maintenance is required for solar panels on farms?

A: Not much! Just keep them clean and have an annual check-up to make sure everything's running smoothly.

Switching to solar energy is a forward-thinking decision that offers financial, environmental, and operational benefits for Irish farms. With government grants, flexible financing options, and advancements in solar technology, 2025 is the perfect time to invest in a sustainable future for your farm. New Energy can help your farm in Waterford, Wexford, Tipperary or anywhere in the Southeast of Ireland switch to renewable energy. 

Contact us today or get a quote and learn how solar panels can benefit your farm in 2025.