Green energy is any type of energy, generated from renewable resources. It does not produce any greenhouse gas emissions and can be replenished naturally, unlike fossil fuels which deplete the earth's natural resources and rely on unsustainable extraction methods. Ireland has an abundance of green energy sources with solar, wind and water opportunities allowing us to generate electricity readily. As we understand more about the impact of burning fossil fuels globally, from price wars to climate change and political strong-arming, we equip ourselves with powerful arguments and motivations for the continued development and implementation of green energy for all. If we can generate energy, without depleting natural resources or changing the landscape drastically, we all benefit from the reduction in damaging emissions. 

The two largest sources of green energy in Ireland are wind and solar energy. Wind energy is currently the largest contributing resource of renewable energy in Ireland. It is Ireland's largest and cheapest renewable source. From our first wind farm developed in Co. Mayo back in 1992, generating 6MW of electricity, to the current output of 192MW, that’s a 3200% increase over a 32 year period. We were one of the first countries in Europe to make such a large investment in renewable energy - 20 turbines, generating 300kWh each, with a blade tip height of 46.5m. The current project, to replace the Bellacorrick turbines with 18 new turbines, with a blade tip height of 200m, will allow Bord na Mona and ESB generate a total of 192Mw.

Bellacorrick                 Oweninny                  Change

Year of installation                                     1992                                 2024                           32 years

Number of turbines                                      20                                       18                               -10%

Blade tip height                                           46.5m                               200m                        +430%

Output                                                                  6Mw                               192Mw                     +3200%

By comparison, our first grid scale solar farm only became operational in May 2022 - 30 years after our first wind farm. The rate of change and innovation in the sector is balanced by the slow pace of development through planning minefields. The potential for solar remains large however, with our national Climate Action Plan targeting 5GW of solar by 2025 and GW of solar by 2030. With just 700MW connected to the national grid in 2023, we are making gains, but slow gains. The rate at which solar energy is intercepted by the Earth is about 10,000 times greater than the rate at which humankind consumes energy. Harnessing some of this power and having readily available storage, on a mass scale, would allow us to reduce, if not eradicate, our dependence on fossil fuels totally. It is the cleanest and most abundant of renewable sources.

Why is it important?

Our national Climate Action Plan 2021 (CAP21) provides a detailed plan for taking decisive action to achieve a 51% reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and setting us on a path to reach net-zero emissions by no later than 2050. As a nation, we are well behind achieving this target. We need more action, by the masses, to make an impact.

As sustainability becomes more critical, reducing the production of greenhouse gases and other pollutants is a key action for our generation to safeguard future generations. Introducing solar to your business, whether roof mounted or ground mounted, is a significant investment in the future of your business.

Benefits include:

• Reduce your Energy Bills: One of the most compelling benefits of solar energy for your business is the reduction in electricity costs. By generating your own power, you can drastically reduce your utility bills. Shannon Energy will analyse your consumption patterns to generate the best-fit solution that offsets as much grid consumption as possible. This in turn reduces your organisation's emissions. Electricity generated from solar can also reduce gas consumption onsite, that is traditionally used to heat water. Clever design can allow you maximise your return on investment, reducing electricity and gas costs on-site.

• Avail of Government Grants: There are a variety of grants and incentives currently available from the government, to support businesses investing in a more sustainable future. These grants can reduce the upfront costs by as much as 60%. Whether it’s a full review of energy consumption with a business-wide energy audit, or a targeted upgrade in facilities, such a move to solar, there are a range of grants available to support you. Shannon Energy can advise you as to the best option.

• Cement your commitment to Sustainability: Businesses that adopt renewable energy solutions demonstrate a stronger commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This can enhance your corporate image, making you more attractive to stakeholders, investors and environmentally-conscious consumers. Our bespoke proposals outline your potential carbon savings with a Shannon Energy solar investment.

• Achieve Long-Term Financial Stability: After the initial installation investment, solar energy systems require minimal maintenance, leading to predictable and stable energy costs. This financial predictability allows you to better manage your budgets and allocate resources more effectively. We typically see payback periods of 5-7 years with our CapEx projects. We also offer fixed-price electricity options, for clients who want to avail of PPA financing, essentially resulting in reduced electricity costs over the term of the loan and full ownership of the solar project at the end of the 25 year period.

Why not contact Shannon Energy today to discuss your solar potential? We can provide a free assessment of your organisation's electricity consumption. We would be happy to provide a tailored quote for your solar installation, maximising electricity production and grant support available, as well as to discuss pricing options that meet your business needs. To find out more, contact Kale@ShannonEnergy.com to start your solar journey.