Statkraft's plans for renewable energy shed light on Ireland's green transition

“What’s the point of having solar here when it’s always raining?”

Those kinds of questions were common in Ireland until recently. Many believed that solar panels were only effective in sunny countries. However, photovoltaic (PV) panels only need daylight to harness the sun’s energy, not just direct sunlight.

Between May and September, daylight hours generate about 75% of the electricity from solar panels.

Even on overcast days during other months, solar panels still produce clean energy.

Solar energy is vital for Ireland’s renewable goals, reducing carbon emissions and reliance on costly, imported fossil fuels. 

In 2024, a survey conducted by Statkraft showed that almost three quarters of Irish consumers are worried about the country’s energy security and believe the expansion of renewable energy should be given increased priority.

Statkraft has been developing solar projects for over two decades, and our ambitions remain sky-high. In Ireland alone, we have built what is currently the country’s largest solar farm, which can power around 40,000 homes.

All of this is good news for Ireland as renewable energy is the force that combats climate change, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and shields us from energy price inflation. It’s the solution that reduces our reliance on costly, imported fossil fuels and enables Ireland to tap into its own natural resources, rolling out clean, affordable energy.

In addition, solar farms have the potential to light up every home, business, and community while enhancing biodiversity. These projects can positively contribute to the habitat types and diversity of an area through several measures, including planting wildflower meadows, providing sections of species-rich grass, improving hedgerows, and offering food and habitats for bees, birds, and other fauna. 

To learn more and discover how we are powering a brighter future for Ireland, visit Statkraft.ie