Ireland’s solar power hits 1GW, supplying over a third of midday electricity

Ireland's solar power generation achieved an unprecedented milestone, reaching 1 gigawatt (GW) for the first time at noon on April 24. A gigawatt represents 1,000 megawatts of electricity generating capacity. This record signifies a substantial expansion in the nation's renewable energy infrastructure.

At the moment of this peak, solar power contributed 34.4% of Ireland's total electricity generation. This output supplied over a third of the country's midday electricity needs, demonstrating solar's increasing capacity to provide power during peak daylight hours.

Ronan Power, CEO of Solar Ireland, identified this 1GW achievement as a major milestone. He explained it highlights the next crucial phase of the energy transition, shifting focus to how this clean power is best utilized.

The nation has seen rapid growth in distributed solar, with over 177,000 homes and businesses now generating their own electricity. This increase in local generation reduces demand on the national grid and contributes to overall system performance. Recent weeks reflect this trend, showing a 10% to 25% rise in enquiries for rooftop solar, frequently combined with battery storage solutions.

Investments are supporting this growth. The European Investment Bank (EIB) recently committed €100 million for four new utility-scale solar photovoltaic projects across Ireland. Part of a larger €260 million investment, these projects will generate approximately 367 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity annually, capable of powering about 79,900 households.

Looking forward, the focus intensifies on enhancing energy storage and grid flexibility. Storage technologies allow the shifting of excess daytime solar generation to meet higher demand during evening peaks, capturing the full value of clean electricity. Concurrently, grid infrastructure must adapt to support a more distributed and flexible energy system, integrating solar and storage effectively. Ireland aims to generate 22GW from renewables by 2030, making continued, scalable investment in these areas critical for achieving its ambitious targets.