Relevant Matter
Public policy or programme
Public Policy Area
Energy and Natural Resources
Period
1 May. 2026 to 31 Aug. 2026
Specific Details
Solar Energy
Intended results
To discuss the rooftop solar grant.
To highlight that energy generation from solar fits well with energy generation from wind turbines in Ireland given that peak solar generation is in the summer months while wind energy generation is higher in winter months.
To highlight that, with this reality driving increased investment in solar energy generation, there is a need for delivery on the Programme for Government's commitment to develop planning guidelines for solar development in Ireland.
That roof-top solar is a cost-efficient method of generating low-emission energy within Ireland. Roof-top solar panels are now a common sight on many commercial buildings, and increasingly so on many farm buildings.
That roof top solar systems are cost efficient and allow farmers to invest in renewable energy that will typically have a payback period 4-7 years. They can also avail of grant funding through the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) and Accelerated Capital Allowances, where eligible.
That farm solar systems are designed and installed to meet average on-farm energy usage. However, there is also the ability for excess energy to be stored in battery systems and used when required or exported back to the grid.
That IFA is fully supportive of roof-top solar production and has a commercial interest in assisting farmers in installation through the joint venture of our Member Services division with Bord Gáis.
That IFA is seeking a dedicated renewable energy grant scheme, separate from TAMS, with funding provided from the €3 billion Climate and Nature Fund for on-farm renewable investments, including roof-top solar.
A main concern among some farmers is the loss of productive agricultural land to solar farms. Many developments of large-scale solar farms have taken place on some of Ireland's most productive land.
To seek better engagement with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment officials on improvements to the rooftop solar grant.
Name of person primarily responsible for lobbying on this activity
Francie Gorman IFA President, James Kelly IFA Director of Organisation, Patrick McCormick IFA Treasurer, Maurice Brady IFA Leinster Regional Chair, Niamh Brennan IFA Senior Policy Executive
Did any Designated Public Official(DPO) or former Designated Public Official(DPO) carry out lobbying activities on your behalf in relation to this return? You must include yourself, and answer Yes, if you are a current DPO or a DPO at any time in the past. (What is a Designated Public Official?)
No
Did you manage or direct a grassroots campaign?
No
Was this lobbying done on behalf of a client?
No
Lobbying activity
The following activities occurred for this specific Subject Matter Area.
Informal communication (2-5)
Designated public officials lobbied
The following DPOs were lobbied during this return period on this specific Subject Matter Area. These DPOs were involved in at least one of the Lobbying Activities listed above, but not necessarily all of them.
As returns are specific to a Subject Matter Area the above Lobbying Activities may be associated with multiple returns.
Darragh O'Brien
Minister (Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment)
Aine Doyle
Special Adviser (Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment)