Energy Transition
Biomass
Biogas
Biochar
Ways firms will benefit by investing in the transition to green energy
Making the transition to renewable energy inevitably requires investment from companies, but it’s an outlay that comes with long-term financial and environmental benefits.
All manufacturing processes are energy-intensive, but they should no longer be carbon-intensive, states Derek Russell, Director of Sustainability at Techrete, an Irish family business that designs, manufactures and installs precast concrete facades. “It’s why we think the industry must transition to renewable energy,” Russell adds. “This requires investment but will generate benefits for all.”
Techrete manufactures precast concrete using 100% renewable electricity sources and generates up to 50% of its electricity on-site in Balbriggan, County Dublin and North Lincolnshire in the UK. Both plants are equipped with extensive solar arrays, while the Balbriggan site also has a 45kW ground source heat pump, providing thermal energy.
Need for increased government investment in renewables
“Whilst our solar arrays are greatly beneficial, sourcing certified renewable electricity directly from the grid, generated at scale, can offer a more efficient and lower-carbon solution for all. We want the opportunity to take wind, hydro and large-scale solar-generated power from the grid,” Russell says. “That’s why Ireland and the UK need to accelerate their investment in renewable energy.”
Techrete is also seeking greater transparency in grid-supplied renewable energy data. “From an accounting and sustainability reporting perspective, it is important to understand the exact breakdown of renewable sources within our supply — for example, the proportion derived from wind versus hydro,” notes Russell. “This level of detail not only strengthens the accuracy of our sustainability reporting but also enhances the confidence we can provide to clients.”
Efficiency drives sustainability strategy
The company is also optimising material efficiency, incorporating lower-carbon alternatives into its concrete mixes and minimising waste streams throughout its operations. “Our approach goes far beyond energy substitution,” explains Russell.
“We are continuously improving the efficiency of our production processes to reduce the energy intensity of our products, whilst engineering solutions that require less concrete without compromising performance and integrating innovative materials with lower embodied carbon. Each of these measures contributes to reducing the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of our products, enhancing the environmental performance we can demonstrate to clients.”
LSolar PV and wind power stabilise Ireland’s renewable energy mix
Ireland’s transition to clean energy continues to accelerate, with onshore renewable electricity generation, particularly wind and solar, currently being the cornerstone of this transformation.
ast year, 40% of Ireland’s electricity supply came from renewable energy.
With Ireland’s advantage of abundant wind resources, along with well-thought-out policy design, we have successfully positioned ourselves as a world leader in onshore wind generation, with wind accounting for over 35% of electricity generation annually.
Community-backed clean energy
The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) has played a pivotal role in accelerating project delivery and attracting investment in largescale renewable developments. The Community Benefit Fund, introduced under RESS, has been particularly effective in building local support for projects by ensuring direct economic returns to the local communities that host these projects.
As auctions have progressed, investor confidence has grown due to ongoing commitments by the Government to an annual programme of auctions, improvements in auction design, planning, permitting and grid connections processes. This contributes to a steady pipeline of projects and continued deployment.
Wind and solar stabilise supply
Ireland’s onshore wind generation now exceeds 5 GW. These projects not only deliver clean energy; they also support rural economies by generating revenue through commercial rates and creating employment.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) is highly complementary to wind generation, providing a more stable and balanced energy supply across time. It is the fastest-growing renewable electricity source in the country.
Additionally, thousands of Irish homes and businesses are now generating their own clean energy, reducing energy bills and contributing to national climate targets. This contributes to relieving pressure on the national grid and allows households to export excess electricity generated to the network and receive payments from their suppliers for that power.
Grid investment powers Ireland’s transition Ireland’s ambitions extend beyond the success of onshore development. The state is a key emerging market in the offshore renewable energy (ORE) space, with significant ORE ambitions.
Ireland’s government recently announced a transformative funding package for both the onshore and offshore grid, which will see €3.5 billion investment in Ireland’s electricity infrastructure. Ireland has five ‘phase one’ ORE projects in the planning system, with the expectation that these projects will be in construction by 2030.
As part of the state’s plan-led approach to ORE, the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC DMAP) was approved by the Oireachtas in October 2024 and identified four sites where future offshore developments will take place.
Last May, the Government also announced a National Designated Maritime Area Plan to accelerate a national rollout of ORE. The goal is the delivery of 20 GW of offshore renewable energy by 2040. This national plan will enable forward planning for port and infrastructure development, and grid connection, as part of a long-term, holistic vision to benefit society and the environment.
Darragh O’Brien Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment & Minister for Transport
Sponsored by Techrete
Derek Russell New Product Development & Sustainability, Techrete UK & Ireland
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Summer sunshine brings new records for solar power on the grid
Ireland isn’t renowned for its sunshine, but solar is powering more and more electricity on the grid.
Charlie McGee is System Operational Manager at EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity transmission grid. He outlines some of the trends being seen by the National Control Centre, where EirGrid is responsible for balancing electricity supply and demand every minute of the day.
Record solar generation growth
While wind continues to be the most significant contributor to renewable electricity in Ireland, an increased rollout of grid-scale solar resulted in new records being set in May, June and July of 2025. By July of this year, the solar energy output for 2025 had already surpassed the solar energy output for the entirety of 2024
(January–December), illustrating the year-on-year growth.
“The overall percentage for solar power remains small, but it is growing, marking an evolution in our fuel mix. In May, for example, solar represented 6.5% of electricity generated for the month, compared to 2.7% in May 2023,” explains McGee.
“We saw our most recent peak of 798 MW (megawatts) set at 3 pm on Wednesday, 9th July. This was up 30 MW from the previous record and 75 MW higher than the same time last year. It’s important to note that this data does not include rooftop (embedded) solar.”
Grid upgrades for renewables “While it doesn’t necessarily need
to be sunny to produce solar power, some of the peaks seen over the summer period typically occurred during periods of strong sunshine,” says McGee.
EirGrid is currently progressing the most ambitious programme of work ever undertaken on the transmission system in Ireland. This will see upgrades and new infrastructure right across the country.
He adds: “Continued investment in our grid and delivery of that infrastructure is fundamental to unlocking greater energy independence and security, enabling social and economic growth both nationally and regionally, meeting future needs and reaching renewable energy targets.”
From coal to renewables
In June this year, the end of Moneypoint’s coal operations made Ireland the sixth European country to end its coal use, as renewables continue to increase in the share of power generation. Currently, up to 75% of electricity can come from renewables at any one time in Ireland, which is high by international standards.
“Operating a power system with electricity generated from high levels of variable renewables, such as wind and solar, is complex and technically very challenging. Our priority is to ensure the grid remains stable and secure,” concludes McGee.
Irish energy firm is helping to make renewables ‘the new normal’
An Irish energy firm wants to make it easy to transition to a greener future by offering customers various renewable solutions — such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and solar.
Orla Stevens, MD of energy supplier Certa, envisions a greener future for Ireland. One where filling your car up with HVO — a low-carbon biofuel — is an ordinary occurrence. “That means making HVO more accessible,” she says. “Because if people drive to one of our locations and see the pink HVO pump, they’ll use it. It will become ‘the norm.’”
Certa operates a network of forecourts around Ireland and currently offers HVO at 25 of them. Ideally, that number will increase. “This clearly requires investment on our part,” says Stevens. “But we think HVO is the sustainable way forward.”
HVO benefits for motorists and homeowners
HVO is also used in EcoMax, the company’s lowercarbon blended biofuel for the domestic market, which could help Irish households with liquid fuel heaters lower their home heating carbon emissions by up to 20%.
A full, transparent and traceable chain of custody HVO demand is also rising on the commercial side.
The big plus is that HVO reduces carbon emissions by up to 90%.
Customers certainly give it a big thumbs up. HVO is made from renewable waste fats and vegetable oils and can be used in any diesel engine (no modifications necessary). It’s mixable, too, so the engine doesn’t have to be empty before motorists start filling up.
“The big plus is that HVO reduces carbon emissions by up to 90%,” explains Laura Byrne, Head of Sustainable Fuels. “It’s 100% fossil free, and the performance it gives is exactly the same as diesel, so there’s no compromise in mileage and power. Our fleet runs on it.”
“Our construction industry customers use HVO in their plant machinery and, on the marine side, Dublin Port use it in their pilot boats,” says Byrne. “When businesses transition to it, they don’t go back.” Another benefit is that Certa only buys HVO from suppliers accredited by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC), which gives the company a full, transparent and traceable chain of custody and enables it to assign Proof of Sustainability (POS) certification to its clients.
Naturally, the battle against climate change requires a mix of renewable solutions. So, after acquiring renewable energy specialists Alternative Energy Ireland in 2023, the company also offers a solar panel system to its domestic and commercial clients, with a cash-back guarantee if it doesn’t perform as promised. “With renewables, it’s important to give customers options,” says Stevens. “They can then make a decision that suits their lifestyle — or business.”
Charlie McGee System Operational Manager, EirGrid
Orla Stevens MD, Certa
Laura Byrne Head of Sustainable Fuels, Certa
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Building Ireland’s flexible, future-proof grid
Ireland’s solar surge is no longer just about panels on rooftops. The next phase of Ireland’s clean energy transition won’t be won with megawatts alone; it will be won with flexibility.
Solar is expanding across homes, schools, farms and businesses, but infrastructure isn’t keeping pace. Without investment, we risk unused capacity instead of real progress.
Stability is not optional
Our power system has long had to manage the challenges of importing energy over interconnectors while absorbing high levels of renewables. We’ve also led the way in pioneering operational safeguards like RoCoF recalibration, synchronous compensation and a world-leading system services market. Such solutions will make or break our future energy security.
Let’s not waste a single ray
Negative pricing and curtailment are becoming more common and are clear signs the grid isn’t keeping up. Storage and the rollout of hybrid solar-battery connections can help capture excess energy and fasttrack capacity without overloading the grid. Yet, none of this works without a smart grid capable of balancing dynamic loads, integrating behind-the-meter assets and adapting in real time.
Momentum in policy
The newly published Private Wires Policy is a long-awaited signal that Ireland is ready to enable more decentralised, direct connections between solar generation and large energy users. That opens the door to hundreds of megawatts of clean energy delivered faster, more affordably and with less reliance on central infrastructure.
The next evolution: circular solar
As we scale solar to meet Ireland’s targets and beyond, we must also think about the full lifecycle of this infrastructure. Recycling, reuse and materials recovery need to be built into today’s solar planning — not treated as tomorrow’s problem. This evolution is already underway, and Ireland has a chance to lead by embedding circularity into its solar ecosystem from the outset.
Building solar-ready infrastructure
At Solar Ireland, we’re not just talking about the future, we’re helping to shape it. Through advocacy, collaboration and industry leadership, we’re working to build the conditions where solar can thrive. The Solar Ireland 2025 conference this October will bring together innovators, policymakers and energy leaders to tackle the practicalities of planning, deploying and optimising our solar system of tomorrow.
PPAs remove upfront cost from large-scale solar
When I speak with business leaders across Ireland, one theme comes up again and again: they want to take action on sustainability.
However, the upfront cost of large solar projects can feel like a roadblock. That’s exactly the challenge our partnership with SSE Airtricity is designed to solve.
Solar power purchase agreements
Through a power purchase agreement (PPA), companies can have a solar PV system installed, operated and maintained on their premises without any upfront investment. Instead, the business commits to buying the electricity generated at a fixed, competitive rate over the term of the agreement. It’s a simple structure that gives instant access to renewable energy, shields against unpredictable energy markets and supports the transition to net zero.
At Activ8, we’ve delivered more than 20,000 solar installations across Ireland, from family homes to some of the country’s largest commercial projects. Partnering with SSE Airtricity means our clients get the best of both worlds: proven solar expertise and the long-term backing of a trusted supplier. Together, we’re able to structure projects in a way that delivers certainty, reliability and real long-term value.
Lock in energy costs
The beauty of a PPA is that it removes the capital barrier. A manufacturing plant, logistics hub or food processor can switch on clean energy at scale without touching their balance sheet. From day one, they’re cutting carbon and locking in predictable energy costs — a powerful combination in today’s volatile market.
Plus, let’s not overlook the bottom line. Every cent saved on energy is a cent that can be reinvested in people, processes and growth. Predictable rates help with planning, reduced exposure to price shocks strengthens competitiveness and being able to point to genuine sustainability progress enhances a company’s reputation with customers, investors and employees alike. Ultimately, PPAs allow businesses to protect profits today while building resilience for tomorrow.
That’s why I believe PPAs are one of the most practical tools available to Irish industry right now. By working together, Activ8 and SSE Airtricity are making sure companies can act decisively, cutting carbon without cutting into capital.
Fighting for energy independence in Ireland
Onshore wind energy is our most affordable source of new electricity. It is clean and secure; it creates jobs at home; and it supports communities in rural Ireland.
Irish wind farms provide more than a third of the country’s electricity — a higher share from onshore wind than anywhere else in Europe. Without them, we would spend more than a billion euros a year on gas, chiefly imported, for electricity generation. While offshore wind gains momentum, onshore projects remain essential to meeting 2030 targets and will supply most of our renewable power well into the next decade.
Accelerating affordable wind energy
We need to build more, faster and more affordably or face billions in fines identified by the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and the Climate Change Advisory Council. A new report from MKO, ‘Protecting Consumers: Our onshore wind energy opportunity,’ provides a detailed analysis of the potential for more onshore wind energy in Ireland and shows us that we can do just that.
We have just over 5,000MW connected to the electricity grid. Another four thousand have secured, or applied for, planning permission, which could get us close to our existing 9,000MW target.
MKO’s detailed and painstaking analysis maps every household and business in Ireland; identifies every environmentally protected area, every river, lake and stream; develops a coherent national approach to landscape; and identifies the total space left in Ireland for onshore wind energy development. Out of this area — roughly 1,302 square kilometres or less than 2% of the country — authors conservatively estimate that at least another 6,000MW of onshore wind energy could be produced beyond the current 9,000MW target.
Challenges to tackle
Some of the most suitable locations identified are in areas with a weak electricity grid network. That is why investing in upgrading our grid is so important — to get affordable, clean energy from where it is produced to where it is needed.
Other locations might be difficult to develop at the right cost. That is why we, supported by the rest of the renewable energy industry, have been calling for a cross-departmental and independently chaired task force to identify how we can lower the price of renewable electricity in Ireland.
A resilient future with wind energy
Martin Mulholland Director of Commercial Operations, Activ8 Energies
We cannot build a strong, resilient, low-carbon economy if we are relying on imported, expensive fossil fuels. Ireland’s onshore wind farms — supported by new offshore wind projects, solar, storage and a new generation of advanced interconnectors — will secure the future of a prosperous, competitive country in which our families and our businesses can thrive. That’s a prize worth fighting for.
Sponsored by Activ8
Noel Cunniffe CEO, Wind Energy Ireland
Ronan Power CEO, Solar Ireland
Huawei residential solar redefines home energy in Ireland
Residential solar and storage are helping homeowners manage rising energy costs and move towards zero-carbon living.
As a trusted partner for over 20 years, Huawei is now supporting Ireland’s green energy transition. It is combining its expertise in digital and power electronics with photovoltaic (PV), energy storage, cloud and intelligent technologies to deliver its FusionSolar All-Scenario Smart PV and energy storage solutions. Designed for commercial, industrial and residential markets, these solutions optimise power generation, distribution and consumption. They reduce levelised cost of electricity and levelised cost of storage, enabling grid forming and enhancing safety while supporting PV as a primary green energy source.
Empowering Irish homes with smart, efficient solar solutions
Through continued collaboration with local installers and adherence to European safety and certification standards, Huawei’s residential solar inverter solutions have established a strong position in Ireland’s residential sector.
Combining industry-leading high conversion efficiency of up to 98.4% with modular scalability and intelligent energy management through FusionSolar, the system enables Irish households to significantly reduce electricity costs while achieving up to 80% energy self-sufficiency, with payback periods as short as five to seven years. Featuring advanced safety mechanisms, Huawei’s inverters are specifically designed to perform reliably in Ireland’s varied climate.
The home as an energy management hub As costs rise and energy demand grows, solar energy adoption — especially when paired with batterybased energy storage systems — is accelerating and becoming essential to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Huawei’s FusionSolar solution enables households to produce, store and manage electricity intelligently, with technologies including module optimisers, inverters, batteries, EV chargers and an intelligent energy management system. The system
Advanced energy storage system to support Ireland’s clean energy transition
As commercial solar adoption accelerates, Huawei’s hybrid cooling energy system offers high efficiency, safety and reliability for commercial and industrial energy systems.
With energy prices on the rise and mounting environmental obligations, Irish businesses are seeking reliable and future-proof, cost-effective solutions to fuel their growth sustainably.
Earlier this year, Huawei introduced a next-generation commercial and industrial energy storage system. It is designed to help companies reduce electricity costs and enhance energy efficiency with smart energy storage solutions.
Safety and efficiency at the core
The energy storage system is the industry’s first hybrid air-liquid cooling system with a 215 kWh capacity, developed specifically for commercial applications. The system achieves 91.3% round-trip efficiency and uses pack-level optimisation, enabling businesses to access around 2% more usable energy than conventional designs.
Its ‘from cell to consumer’ dual safety architecture protects every stage from individual battery cells to final energy delivery. It has been certified with the highest-level Safety Prime Certification by TÜV Rheinland. Industry analysts agree that this sets a new benchmark for safety in large-scale energy storage projects.
Lower costs and faster returns
The energy storage system is designed to reduce initial investment and simplify installation.
ensures maximum solar yield while adapting energy use based on off-peak tariffs and consumption patterns.
Maximising rooftop power Rooftops are often underused due to shading or layout issues. Huawei’s optimisers solve this by allowing each solar panel module to operate independently down to the individual cell level, avoiding performance loss across the system. More flexible placement means more panels — and more energy.
Smarter storage, greater independence Producing clean energy is only half the story. FusionSolar enables smart usage, with storage playing a key role. Huawei’s S1 residential battery offers plug-and-play expandability up to 15KW, integrated safety features and reliable performance across a wide temperature range, from -20°C to 55°C. When paired with SmartGuard, the system can power homes even during outages. The Smart Assistant platform manages the flow between PV generation, battery storage systems and third-party devices — ensuring electricity is used or stored at the right time, taking advantage of off-peak energy cost or solar availability.
It includes:
• Cable-free installation without auxiliary transformers
• Up to 20% lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) compared with similar solutions
Huawei integrated software tools, such as AI-driven energy scheduling and return on investment (ROI) forecasting, can help operators boost profitability by over 10%, based on data from existing projects.
Supporting Ireland’s clean energy goals
The energy storage system is part of Huawei’s One-Fits-All solution, which combines solar PV, energy storage, EV charging and smart management systems into a single package. The platform is designed for flexible deployment, suitable for all locations ranging from offices, campuses and industrial plants. It supports both hybrid and off-grid installation.
With over 30 years of experience in global energy technology, Huawei is ready to assist Irish businesses in moving toward cleaner and sustainable energy solutions, aligning with Ireland’s long-term climate and energy ambitions.
David Minnis Energy Storage System Solution Director, Huawei Europe
Charles Gong Director of Digital Power Dept, Huawei Ireland
ImageprovidedbyHuawei
Scheduling and dispatch programme to revolutionise energy storage market in Ireland
Ireland’s energy market is evolving. The Scheduling and Dispatch Programme (SDP), led by the Transmission System Operators (TSOs) Eirgrid & SONI can improve how electricity is scheduled and dispatched across the all-island grid.
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) will be enabled to fully participate in energy trading, aligning with the EU Clean Energy Package and supporting Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
Market access for batteries
Under the new framework, batteries will be permitted to buy and sell electricity in the day-ahead, intra-day and real-time markets in the same way as traditional fossil fuel power plants. This shift positions batteries as active market participants, capable of optimising their operation based on market price signals and system needs.
The project enhances the economic viability of battery assets, unlocking access to multiple trading platforms and revenue streams while encouraging broader participation in energy markets.
Aligning storage with demand
Batteries can communicate their intended charging and discharging schedules directly to the grid operators. This empowers asset owners to better align their operations with both market conditions and system demand, offering a higher degree of control over how and when batteries are used. It also allows for more efficient scheduling of grid resources, particularly during periods of volatility or high renewable generation. TSOs will also have real-time access to data on the state of charge of individual battery systems. This provides better situational awareness, enabling them to make more informed decisions about when and how to dispatch battery resources to balance supply and demand. Batteries will also receive clearer and more accurate operational instructions from the grid, enhancing responsiveness and efficiency.
Software-driven battery optimisation
Richard O’Loughlin, Deputy CEO at GridBeyond, explains: “The new Scheduling and Dispatch framework brings fantastic opportunities for BESS owners who will be able to take advantage of new revenue streams and optimal trading of their assets. For asset owners, it will necessitate utilising best-in-class software platform to reforecast and reoptimise hour by hour from a day ahead to real time. By leveraging real-time data, AI driven forecasts and predictive analytics, GridBeyond’s “Point” platform can support battery owners and operators to optimise dispatch and trading decisions.”
He adds: “We have been offering energy optimisation services and trading operations for several years, empowering asset owners across the world with advanced tools and AI-powered solutions. These enable our customers to have immediate short and long-term forecasts across all energy markets, coupled with our optimisation tools, which are essential for optimising the monetisation of their assets and achieving operational savings in Ireland’s energy market.”
The new framework will also accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system by integrating efficient operation of low-carbon technologies which will contribute to a lower system balancing costs which are ultimately borne by the end consumer.
Richard O’Loughlin Deputy CEO, GridBeyond
Bord Gáis Energy invests €1 billion in Ireland’s green transition
Bord Gáis Energy has announced plans to invest €1 billion over five years to support Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
We talk to Catherine Lonergan, Director of Customer and Commercial, and Denis O’Sullivan, Assets Director, about how the company is powering the green transition.
Aiming to reach net zero by 2040
Bord Gáis Energy will be 50 years in business next year. The company has set targets to reach net zero by 2040 and to help its customers achieve the same by 2050. Backed by parent company Centrica plc, the investment will focus on expanding renewables, new technologies and infrastructure to secure supply while reducing carbon.
“Our business is evolving rapidly,” says O’Sullivan. “We’re investing in projects that will stabilise Ireland’s energy system and give customers the tools to cut costs and reduce emissions.”
Energy efficiency is emerging as a priority for households and businesses amid rising energy costs and climate pressures.
Balancing security and net zero
Bord Gáis Energy is finalising the development of two new gas peaking plants in Dublin and Athlone and has proposed a third in Cashla, Co. Galway. These facilities provide flexible electricity generation to the grid and are designed to be adaptable to low-carbon fuels such as biomethane and hydrogen blends.
“These plants are essential for maintaining security of supply during the transition,” O’Sullivan says. “They provide flexibility today and the potential to run on cleaner fuels tomorrow.”
The company has also expanded its renewable portfolio through long-term Power Purchase
Agreements with leading Irish wind and solar developers, ensuring more green power is delivered into the grid.
Efficiency for homes and businesses
Energy efficiency is emerging as a priority for households and businesses amid rising energy costs and climate pressures. Bord Gáis Energy is aiming to support its 730,000 customers with smart home systems, integrated solar solutions and digital tools that allow them to monitor and reduce usage.
“Efficiency isn’t just about lowering bills,” explains Lonergan. “It’s about helping customers develop sustainable habits that will move them closer to net zero.”
Focus on farming and solar
In the agricultural sector, the company has built a long-term partnership with the Irish Farmers Association, supporting solar installations that make renewable energy financially viable for farms nationwide.
Bord Gáis Energy recently acquired solar PV installer Swyft Energy, strengthening its position in the domestic and commercial solar market. Together with its existing capabilities, the company is targeting over 12,000 installations by 2029. In addition, the company has become a trusted one-stop-shop for home energy upgrades in partnership with the SEAI — helping households cut bills and carbon at the same time. These solutions are central to supporting Ireland’s decarbonisation journey.
Investing in the future
From renewable power deals to smart home technology, Bord Gáis Energy says its focus is on building infrastructure that can deliver both energy security and sustainability.
“As Ireland makes the shift to a low-carbon future, our mission is clear,” Lonergan says. “Together, we’re building a greener, fairer future for generations to come.”
Catherine Lonergan Director of Customer and Commercial, Bord Gáis Energy
Denis O’Sullivan Director of Assets, Bord Gáis Energy
What it means to lead the renewable energy sector
Ireland’s energy transition is more than about providing clean, affordable energy; balancing the needs of the environment and investing in local communities are strategic pillars of a growing industry.
Established in 2011, Power Capital
Renewable Energy stands as a leading independent power producer in Ireland. Their mission is simple yet strong: to drive a sustainable future by harnessing power from renewable sources.
They bring this mission to life by sustainably managing the entire project’s lifecycle. With four operational solar farms, seven under construction and more than 10 in planning, their pipeline exceeds 5 GW. In 2025, their solar farms delivered up to 7% of Ireland’s electricity at peak times. They are projected to reduce CO2 emissions by over 3.2 million tonnes after accounting for manufacturing emissions.
A clear purpose anchors ethical and sustainable decision-making
CEO and Co-Founder Justin Brown has always envisaged the company as a beacon of responsible and ethically driven energy. He says: “As a power for good, our aim is to contribute to the regeneration of our planet and its people, ensuring collective prosperity. Operationally, we strive to deliver positive impact, guided by our values and commitment to innovation.”
Shared mindset and vision with key stakeholders
Power Capital is committed to playing a leading role in delivering Ireland’s 2030 renewable energy targets. This will be supported by continuing development, securing local and international funding and partnering with large energy users to support their growth along with the growth of the economy. They encourage themselves to align with stakeholders holding similar value systems. By collaborating with major tech energy users and supporting landowners in nurturing their land, they’ve strengthened their commitment to the planet and communities. The yearly publication of their ESG report mirrors their collective achievements.
and landowners’ experience. They are committed to listening and addressing any fears or misconceptions because they recognise that change can bring concerns. This proactive engagement enables them to build lasting and trusting relationships.
Meaningful connections to Power Capital also mean bringing their team’s voices into their initiatives through surveys and polls. Community initiatives and projects go beyond a financial contribution. They all reflect the UN SDGs identified by their Team Members and the needs of the local communities.
Corporate sponsorship and mutual social responsibility projects
Specifically relating to community investment, Power Capital approaches it in two ways: corporate sponsorship and mutual social responsibility (MSR) projects. These projects are proactively identified by individuals involved, often before the community benefit funds are available.
In 2025 alone, the company is committing to approximately €100,000 on initiatives such as Meals on Wheels, coastal biodiversity education pods, STEAM education in DEIS schools, youth mental health support, female retention in sport, sports club sponsorships and cancer support programmes.
The fund is expected to be worth over €2.5 million annually within the next five years, contributing to over 10 counties in Ireland.
Cara Konig-Brock, Landowner of Beaulieu House and Garden, says: “Solar power generation will not only support the long-term viability of the estate but also fit with my wish that it becomes carbon neutral and assists in the fight against climate change.”
Community as a partner in creating positive change
From the early stages of project development, Power Capital is mindful of the local community’s
Midelton Meal and Wheels said: “We normally receive small donations, €25-400.
Power Capital’s €5,000 donation will be a gamechanger; it will enable us to hand out 100 hampers and hold a Christmas event to bring the community together for home-cooked meals and music.”
Community benefit fund directly linked to projects
The second approach is through a community fund directly linked to their projects. The fund is expected to be worth over €2.5 million annually within the next five years, contributing to over 10 counties in Ireland, providing a sustained and significant boost to local stakeholders and many initiatives across seven of the UN SDGs.
Together, these commitments reflect a forwardthinking approach that turns renewable energy projects into catalysts for lasting community growth.
Justin Brown CEO, Power Capital Renewable Energy