Solar power generation and storage in Ireland

How much solar power does Ireland need?

Green Collective covers all-island generation to 31 May 2025; the 6.5% demand met figure is for the Republic only (May 2025). At 1:45 pm on May 18, 2025, solar hit a new peak: 21.1% of Ireland’s total electricity demand was met by utility-scale solar at that moment — the highest on record. The previous high (18.2%) occurred just the year before.

What is the growth of solar energy in Ireland?

The growth of solar energy in Ireland is remarkable. We now have over 140,000 customers harnessing the power of solar panels. In total, 1.7 GW of solar electricity generation is connected across the transmission and distribution networks with continued strong growth expected over the years ahead.

How does a solar photovoltaic energy system work in Ireland?

Solar photovoltaic energy acts to increase Ireland’s electricity supply and to increase the renewable energy share of that electricity supply. Figure 2.24 – Ireland’s solar-PV energy in 2023 mapped from supply to transformation and final consumption. 2.25 – TPER of solar-PV over the last 10-years with year-to-year changes.

How big is Ireland's solar capacity?

Ireland’s total installed solar capacity reached 1.76 GW as of May 31, 2025, according to Solar Ireland’s new “Scale of Solar 2025” report. Based on data from distribution system operator ESB Networks, the report shows Ireland has advanced from a poor PV performer to a mid-tier solar market in Europe within a few years.