In an era of rising energy costs and increased focus on sustainability, more and more businesses in Ireland are turning to solar energy to power their operations. For commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors, installing solar panels is not only an environmental commitment but a smart financial decision. One of the most effective ways for businesses to reap the full benefits of solar power is through behind-the-meter (BTM) installations.

BTM solar installations allow businesses to generate and use electricity directly from their own rooftops, reducing reliance on the grid and driving significant cost savings.  Front-of-meter (FTM) refers to the more traditional method of mass production of electricity by a specialist energy provider, who then distributes it to the end user.

Let’s explore the advantages of BTM solar for commercial and industrial properties and how it can benefit Irish businesses, where the speed to market of BTM solar solutions are very much in contrast to the lengthy planning processes surrounding solar farms and most other types of renewable energy solutions.

1. Immediate Energy Cost Savings

Electricity prices in Ireland have seen considerable hikes in recent years, and commercial electricity rates remain high. BTM solar installations enable businesses to produce their own electricity on-site, reducing dependency on costly grid electricity. Because solar energy is free once installed, companies can significantly lower their energy bills by offsetting their daily consumption with clean, renewable power. Excess power can be stored onsite to a battery, then distributed when needed, especially to reduce peak cost consumption. By generating your own energy and taking less from the grid, you reduce your grid costs, which can include standing charges, per unit billing and maintenance costs.

Key Benefits:

• Lower energy bills: Businesses can reduce their peak demand charges and overall electricity costs.
• Energy independence: Companies can shield themselves from future price volatility and supply constraints.

2. Fast ROI and Long-Term Financial Gains

The financial return on investment (ROI) for BTM solar is often much faster than most businesses expect. With various government incentives like SEAI’s Exceed and Non-Domestic Microgen schemes, with grants of up to €162,600, TAMS support available at an enhanced rate of 60%, and an Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) scheme (of up to 12.5%) the investment in solar can be much less than expected. Many businesses see full payback within just a few years, after which the energy produced is essentially free.

Key Benefits:

• Increased cash flow: Reduced energy bills translate into direct savings that can be reinvested in your business.
• Tax benefits: Availing of the ACA scheme allows businesses to deduct the full cost of solar equipment against profits, providing a tax-efficient investment.

3. Reduced Carbon Footprint and Environmental Impact

Sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses striving to meet environmental standards and regulations. BTM solar systems help businesses dramatically cut their carbon emissions by relying on renewable energy instead of fossil fuels. Ireland has ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and companies that embrace solar energy will play a key role in helping the country achieve these goals. Our national climate action plan, to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and becoming climate neutral no later than 2050, can only be achieved if we all take action.

Key Benefits:

• Carbon reduction: Solar energy significantly lowers the carbon emissions of your business, helping meet sustainability targets.
• Green branding: Installing solar panels enhances your company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible business, which can resonate with customers, partners and stakeholders alike.

4. Reliable Energy Supply and Grid Stability

BTM solar can improve energy security for businesses by providing a more reliable and consistent power source. By generating electricity on-site, businesses can protect themselves against potential grid failures or energy shortages, ensuring continuity of operations. When coupled with battery storage, solar systems can provide further stability, allowing businesses to store excess energy generated during sunny periods for use during peak demand. Our growth in population, housing, data centres and more is creating demand at a level not matched by supply. Data centers alone can consume 30MW, the equivalent of 8,000 homes.

Key Benefits:

• Energy security: Reduces reliance on an often-unstable grid and protects against blackouts or power shortages.
• Future-proofing: Businesses can maintain stable energy supplies, even in an evolving energy market.

5. Enhanced Building Utilisation

Commercial and industrial rooftops are often vast, unused spaces. Installing solar panels maximises the potential of these areas by turning idle space into an energy-producing asset. Whether you have warehouses, manufacturing plants, or office buildings, you can transform your rooftop into a valuable energy resource that contributes to your bottom line. Car parks can also be transformed into energy assets. Though more expensive to install due to the concrete foundations and anchors needed, carports can power employees EV’s, as well as generate electricity for onsite use.

Key Benefits:

• Optimised rooftop usage: Turn your existing real estate into a productive, energy-generating asset.
• Increased property value: Solar installations can increase the long-term value of your building.

6. Supporting Ireland’s Renewable Energy Transition

Ireland is on a journey to reach 80% renewable electricity by 2030, and businesses are essential to achieving this target. By investing in behind-the-meter solar solutions, companies contribute to the decarbonisation of Ireland’s energy grid and help meet the country’s climate action goals. This not only aligns your business with national policies but showcases your commitment to Ireland’s sustainable future. Businesses and individuals need to work independently to help meet the government targets, to ensure we are giving ourselves the best opportunity to thrive. While national targets are being measured and missed, these usually exclude BTM, of which there are approximately 100,000 households, with 3kWp capacity, generating up to 300mWp - a not insignificant number.

Key Benefits:

• Leadership in sustainability: Businesses that adopt renewable energy demonstrate leadership in driving climate action, a growing factor in attracting and retaining employees.
• Community impact: Support the wider transition to clean energy and contribute to a more sustainable, resilient economy. As well as being a leader in the community, green businesses are a focal point for education and green engagement initiatives.