Save with solar
Did you know you can access up to €90,000 to power your farm with solar? Across Ireland, smart farmers are realising that renewable energy makes sense: for the environment
and their wallets.
Did you know you can access up to €90,000 to power your farm with solar? Across Ireland, smart farmers are realising that renewable energy makes sense: for the environment and their wallets.
By reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, they can cut energy costs in a significant way – dedicating their farm budget to repairing buildings, buying ancillary equipment and other operational costs instead.
They can even create a new income stream by installing Solar PV panels on their premises. And with a range of significant government incentives now available for farmers, who can receive 60% grant aid towards costs, it’s never been more affordable to make the switch to solar.
Caldor Solar are experts in helping those in the agricultural sector make the transition: with advice on planning permission, tips on the solar grants available to farmers, plus how to apply.
Our installation process is both professional and efficient – with high-quality materials that are built to last, and long-lasting customer support, too.Â
Benefits of solar for farms
What is a Solar PV System?
Solar energy is power generated from sunlight. By installing Solar PV (photovoltaic) panels on the rooftop of your farm building, or using ground mounted solar panels on appropriate areas of your land, you can harness all that power…and enjoy the
many benefits of free electricity.
Run key appliances on your farm with solar and, if you choose to install a solar battery, you can store solar power for use later – like whenever there’s a power cut, to keep your important operations running.
Despite what you may have heard, Ireland’s climate is actually ideal for solar power generation: which relies on light from the sun rather than heat…and we get plenty of sunlight hours here. Even on the shortest day of the year, Ireland receives around 7.5 hours of daylight, which can yield a substantial amount of solar energy.
Your Solar PV system will keep working even in windy and cloudy weather (though with less efficiency)…and as for rain, well it can actually help to wash any dirt or debris from your panels. Plus, if you have chosen to install that battery we mentioned, you can save any excess electricity produced on really sunny days to power the grey days, too.
Benefits of Solar for Agriculture
Farmers across Ireland are dealing with market changes, weather affecting output, rising costs and increased competition from international suppliers. All the while, their electricity bills are getting higher and higher.
It’s not easy; nor is it sustainable. By switching to a renewable energy source like solar, those involved in agriculture can reduce their reliance on the grid and their dependency on fossil fuels: cutting costs and making real savings, long into the future.
Although it can involve a substantial upfront investment, Solar PV panels typically pay for themselves in as few as 5 years – and, with much lower annual energy bills over a lifespan of 25–30 years, that investment is more than worthwhile. Solar PV systems also offer protection against fluctuations in electricity prices: giving farmers a way to future-proof their business.
Note: each system’s performance, its payback and longevity will vary depending on the system size, the farm’s location and other key factors. Even so, investing in Solar PV is a no-brainer for farmers looking to save money in the long run.
Financial Support
Farmers can benefit from a 60% grant rate, up to €90,000, towards agricultural solar panel installations…and towards the cost of solar batteries, too.
Zero VAT Rate
Lower Bills & Equipment Costs
By powering key appliances in and around the farmhouse with solar, farmers can handle rising costs more effectively – and receive tax incentives, too.
Sustainable Energy Practices
On-farm energy generation helps farmers to reduce their carbon footprint: supporting a more sustainable rural economy and Ireland’s transition to Net Zero.
Additional Revenue
Farmers can create a new income stream by selling excess electricity back to the grid (not applicable to those seeking a TAMs grant).
Permissions and restrictions
Planning Permission for Solar Panels
As of October 2022, most farmers can install Solar PV panels on the rooftops of their farm buildings without requiring planning permission. However, restrictions and exemptions may apply if you’re near an airport or a protected structure – so check with your local planning authority if unsure.
At Caldor Solar, we’re familiar with regulations in communities across Ireland. We can advise you on whether you might need planning permission for your solar panels and, if required, help you with the application process.
Solar panel grants
Agricultural Grants for Solar Panels
Agriculture is one of the key pillars of industry in Ireland – and one that’s started looking for more sustainable solutions. With the latest government tax incentives, schemes and grants for solar panels on farms, clean energy is more accessible, and affordable, than ever.
Part of the new Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS III), this scheme offers eligible farmers 60% off the cost of solar panel installation – plus the same grant rate towards a solar battery, if needed.Â
It includes a standalone investment ceiling of €90,000 – so farmers can still apply for other TAMS items even if they receive the grant aid. However, as the allowance is only for agricultural (ie, non-commercial solar) purposes, farmers who receive this grant may not export excess electricity back to the national grid for profit.
SCIS is set to run until 2028, with a budget of €370 million. It aims to help farmers:
- Reduce energy costs
- Reduce their dependence on fossil fuels
- Reduce their carbon footprint at farm level
The ACA is another tax incentive scheme whereby eligible farmers can deduct the full cost of their equipment from their profits in the same year of purchase.
Intended to promote investment in energy efficient products and equipments, ACA offers farmers immediate value from the cost of their investment…with the long-term benefits of switching to a more renewable energy source evident within a few years. It also means a reduction in their taxable profits.
This government scheme was introduced in 2022 to support homeowners, businesses and farmers in their transition towards green energy sources. So farmers who install a Solar PV system on their premises (and who don’t receive a TAMS grant) can create further income, by selling any excess electricity produced from their solar panels back to the national grid.Â
The payment they’ll receive is known as a Clean Export Guarantee, or CEG – and the amount paid out for this commercial solar power depends on their energy provider.
Part of the new Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS III), this scheme offers eligible farmers 60% off the cost of solar panel installation – plus the same grant rate towards a solar battery, if needed.Â
It includes a standalone investment ceiling of €90,000 – so farmers can still apply for other TAMS items even if they receive the grant aid. However, as the allowance is only for agricultural (ie, non-commercial solar) purposes, farmers who receive this grant may not export excess electricity back to the national grid for profit.
SCIS is set to run until 2028, with a budget of €370 million. It aims to help farmers:
Reduce energy costs
Reduce their dependence on fossil fuels
Reduce their carbon footprint at farm level
The ACA is another tax incentive scheme whereby eligible farmers can deduct the full cost of their equipment from their profits in the same year of purchase.
Intended to promote investment in energy efficient products and equipments, ACA offers farmers immediate value from the cost of their investment…with the long-term benefits of switching to a more renewable energy source evident within a few years. It also means a reduction in their taxable profits.
This government scheme was introduced in 2022 to support homeowners, businesses and farmers in their transition towards green energy sources. So farmers who install a Solar PV system on their premises (and who don’t receive a TAMS grant) can create further income, by selling any excess electricity produced from their solar panels back to the national grid.Â
The payment they’ll receive is known as a Clean Export Guarantee, or CEG – and the amount paid out for this commercial solar power depends on their energy provider.
Get a quote
Caldor Solar can help you navigate the world of grants and incentives. We’ll advise you on what you’re entitled to, support you in choosing the right one for your circumstances, and help you with your application. Call us on 01 25 333 49 or pop in your details here – we’ll get back to you asap.
Thank you!
Solar panel costs
Solar PV: Costs After Grants
So how much do solar panel installations cost…with and without the relevant grants? The below table covers a few examples based on system size, under the new enhanced Non-Domestic Microgen Support Scheme (NDMG). Note: the grant aid provided by this scheme typically covers 20% to 30% of a farmer’s investment costs.
The system’s kWp, or Kilowatt Peak (in the first line) refers to its peak power, or the rate at which it can generate energy in optimal conditions (like a sunny day). In terms of system size, grant aid for farmers has increased considerably under the new TAMS scheme: from 11kW to 62kW.
Note: This is just an example – costs and grants may vary depending on the type and quality of the panels, the system size that’s best for your farm building, plus the location of your farm and how much energy it consumes. Your installation company can give you a clearer estimate during the assessment.
How it works
The Assessment Process
Learn
Get in touch for info on our agricultural
solar panels. We can advise you on applying for planning permission and grants, too.
Survey
We can assess your farm and give you a
personalised quote depending on its location, space available and energy needs.
Install
If you work with us, our team can install a
high-quality solar system that’s best-suited for your farm. We’ll have you up and running in no time.
Support
Solar panels don’t need much active maintenance. Still, our in-house
customer service team is on hand for ongoing support, should you ever need it.
Support
Solar panels don’t need much active maintenance. Still, our in-house
customer service team is on hand for ongoing support, should you ever need it.
Save
Save money from lower electricity bills and save on stress:
you’re doing your bit to support decarbonisation and a sustainable future.
Save
Save money from lower electricity bills and save on stress:
you’re doing your bit to support decarbonisation and a sustainable future.
Caldor Solar have pioneered solar panel installations on farms since 2015 – and we can help you find the best Solar PV system for your farm, too.
Caldor Solar have pioneered solar panel installations on farms since 2015 – and we can help you find the best Solar PV system for your farm, too.
Caldor Solar have pioneered solar panel installations on farms since 2015 – and we can help you find the best Solar PV system for your farm, too. Chat to our team on 01 25 333 49…and get ready to power your premises from the sun.
Why Caldor Solar?
About Caldor Solar
Caldor Solar are one of Ireland’s top solar
energy companies, leading the industry since 2015. We’ve installed over 5,000 PV systems across the country: helping businesses and communities make the simple switch to solar energy generation.
Our mission is simple: to help our customers
save money while gaining energy independence – and to help Ireland reach Net Zero.
Why Choose Us?
Trust
SEAI-registered, industry leaders since 2015. Our work is fully accredited and many of our products include a 25-year performance warranty.
Customer Service
Businesses love our professionalism, 

communication and fast turnaround times.
Longevity
We offer ongoing maintenance and technical support,
far beyond installation.
Free Advice
Get a free assessment to find the best system
and the right fit for your farm.
Join Farmers Across Ireland: 
And Make The Switch to Solar.
Join Farmers Across Ireland: 
And Make The Switch to Solar.
Our reviews
Contacted Roy engineer for information discussion about the panels, and how the process would proceed, no sales push given. Excellent quote, professional from the start 14 pv panels Caldor Solar organised the grant application. Follow up from Caldor Administration. 25 degrees today...
Tipperary - Residential
Maeve Hynes
Quality job great PV system couldn't be happier with the installation. The installers were really nice guy's who were happy to answer any of the questions and explain the system to me. I would highly recommend Caldor Solar to anyone.
Kildare - Residential
Gerard Fennel
Great job from Caldor from quote to installation. Quote was pragmatic discussion with a pre-sales engineer. Ordering and BER rating very smoothly handled. Installation was excellent. The installers arrived on site at 1 and were done by 6 that day — nice guys giving good advice along the way. Ours...
Limerick - Commercial
David Connolly
UPDATE: We have had the panels in for 6 months now (winter months) and not that the brighter days are coming were generating more than we are using which is great as we're putting back to the grid. I don't need to heat the water any more I've hot water all the time. V v v happy with the results to date. Our current...
Tipperary - Residential
Patricia McAleese
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FAQs
Your Journey to Sustainable Energy Starts Here
At Caldor Solar, we’re not just selling solar panels; we’re championing a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future for you and Ireland.
And we’re happy to answer any questions you might have.
You’re looking at a lifespan of around 25–30 years, though your panels won’t just stop working at this point. Instead, they’ll slowly start to deteriorate: with reduced energy production over time.
Monocrystalline panels are best for generating electricity if you have limited space to work with. Their yield is around 18–23%. While thin-film or amorphous panels only yield 8–12% and they need more space (although they are cheaper). At Caldor Solar, our matt black mono panels are designed to blend into your roof and are composed the highest-quality materials for durability. Ground mounted solar panels are another useful option for farmers – but we can assess your farm building and land to find the best location for your solar panels during the inspection process.
Although typically, most solar panel installations are on a property’s roof, you can also install groundmounted solar panels that can be highly efficient. Ideally, your PV panels will be free from any obstacles or objects that would cast too much shade (which would affect their performance) and facing to the south for the highest yield (perhaps more easily achieved with ground-mounted panels, as we can find the right spot on your farm for those).
It’s likely that if applying for a grant, it will be part of the TAMS III scheme – such as the Solar Capital Investment Scheme (SCIS), which you can read more about here. If the documentation and criteria appear overwhelming in any way, our team can help you with the application process.