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ISEA's Response to Tánaiste critcises impact of large solar farms on Ireland's landscape

Priscila Mc Geehan

The Irish Solar Energy Association (ISEA) addresses concerns about the impact of solar farms on Ireland's agricultural landscape. Meeting the government's solar targets will require just around 0.2% of Ireland’s agricultural land area, ensuring agricultural productivity is largely unaffected.


With €6.5 million spent daily on energy imports, enhancing domestic renewable energy capacity is vital for energy security. Ireland’s active planning system ensures solar projects are carefully assessed to balance environmental, agricultural, and visual factors.


It is important to note that solar farms can coexist with agricultural practices. Many solar installations are designed to allow for grazing and other land uses, meaning the land continues to provide agricultural value. Far from replacing "40 shades of green with 40 shades of grey," solar energy development in Ireland seeks to enhance environmental sustainability, support the country’s climate goals, and provide a pathway to reduce carbon emissions while safeguarding the nation's future energy needs without sacrificing its natural beauty or agricultural heritage.


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