All the latest solar related news in Ireland and around the world
September 29, 2026
L-R Stephen Gallagher – MD SSE Airtricity, Barry Gavin – Activ8, Ciaran Marron – CEO, Activ8
The solar energy solutions provider aims to strengthen its board with Gavin’s senior sustainable finance and clean energy infrastructure expertise
Activ8 Solar Energies, Ireland’s leading solar provider, has appointed Barry Gavin as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chairperson of the company’s board.
Barry brings over 25 years’ experience in sustainable finance and clean energy infrastructure, spanning C-suite executive, Chair and non-executive board roles with organisations including Gaelectric, CODEMA, An Post and FuturEnergy Ireland. He has extensive experience in corporate governance, strategy and investment, alongside sector expertise spanning the primary emitting sectors: power, heating/cooling, and transport, with experience across residential, commercial and industrial markets. This gives him a broad, cross-sectoral perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with the energy transition. Barry is also an Adjunct Lecturer at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, where he lectures in Sustainable Finance and Renewable Energy Finance.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, holds an MBA from Dublin City University, has been approved by the Central Bank of Ireland to hold Pre-Approval Controlled Function (PCF) roles as an Independent Non-Executive Director, and is a member of the Institute of Directors.
Ciaran Marron, CEO and Founder of Activ8 Solar Energies, said: “Barry’s experience across sustainable finance and clean energy infrastructure is a significant addition to our board. He is a real authority in our sector, with a rare combination of executive and non-executive experience and a deep understanding of governance in regulated environments – all of which will support us well as we continue to grow.”
Commenting on his appointment, Barry Gavin said: “This is an exciting time to join Activ8. Over two decades, the team has built a strong position in the Irish solar market, providing a solid platform for the next phase of growth. I’m looking forward to working with Ciaran, the Board and the wider team as the business develops. The energy transition has been a significant part of my executive, board and academic work, and I’m pleased to bring that experience and perspective to Activ8.”
This appointment comes at an exciting time for Activ8, as the company celebrates 20 years in business, having recently launched its all-island funded solar initiative – worth up to €200 million – helping Irish businesses install on-site solar systems without upfront costs through long-term Power Purchase Agreements.
All the latest solar related news in Ireland and around the world
** Press Release: AIBF – Friday, 19th of January, 2024 **
Activ8 Solar Energies, a pioneering force in the solar industry, has been honoured as Business All-Star Solar Energy Company of the Year 2024, an accolade bestowed by the esteemed All-Ireland Business Foundation.
Established in 2007, Activ8 Solar Energies has emerged as a leading solar technology provider, catering to both residential and commercial clientele. Boasting the distinction of being the longest-standing solar company in Ireland, the company has executed over 17,500 installations spanning the entire island.
With its headquarters strategically located in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, and additional bases in Naas and Cashel, Activ8 Solar Energies operates with precision, deploying installation and survey teams nationwide. The company, founded by the visionary CEO Ciaran Marron, is 50% owned by SSE Airtricity.
This prestigious recognition as the Business All-Star Solar Energy Company of the Year 2024 is a testament to Activ8 Solar Energies’ exceptional performance during the rigorous Business All-Star accreditation audit. The company’s commitment to excellence has resulted in the well-deserved acknowledgment of its solar prowess.
This prestigious recognition as the Business All-Star Solar Energy Company of the Year 2024 is a testament to Activ8 Solar Energies’ exceptional performance during the rigorous Business All-Star accreditation audit. The company’s commitment to excellence has resulted in the well-deserved acknowledgment of its solar prowess.
On the commercial front, Activ8 Solar Energies has left an indelible mark, collaborating with multinational corporations, tech giants, and indigenous Irish SMEs to deliver award-winning solar projects throughout Ireland.
Embodying the ethos of “we do not follow standards, we set them,” Activ8 Solar Energies has carved a trajectory of success marked by determination, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Announcing the news of Activ8 Solar Energies’ achievement, Deputy Chair of AIBF’s Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, said:
“This accolade is in recognition of Activ8 Solar Energies’ outstanding performance during its audit for Business All-Star accreditation. The result of the audit saw the company being honoured with Business All-Star Solar Energy Company 2024 accreditation.
Activ8 Solar Energies’ trajectory is not merely a narrative of success but a journey of determination, innovation, and a profound commitment to sustainability. As they continue to illuminate the path toward a greener future, we extend our warmest congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”
Reacting to the news of his company’s achievement, Activ8 Solar Energies CEO, Ciaran Marron said:
“We are delighted to be recognised by the All-Ireland Business Foundation with the accreditation of Business All-Star Solar Energy Company of the Year 2024. As Ireland’s largest Solar Installation company, we put a huge emphasis on quality and I feel this recognition and the fact that we had the highest ever audit score during the accreditation process reflects that.
I feel this award is a reflection of the incredible work that happens each and everyday at Activ8. Whether it’s from our teams at our headquarters in Carrickmacross, or indeed Naas or Cashel, or from our installation and survey teams on rooftops across the country, it all helps deliver a world class customer journey for both our residential and commercial customers.
This accreditation will inspire us to new heights as we plan to grow once again in 2024. Our company hasn’t changed since 2007, ‘we don’t meet standards, we set them’ and we will continue to live by this motto each and every day.”
Managing Director of the All-Ireland Business Foundation Kapil Khanna said: The accreditation, which is now held by over 650 firms, is needed by the thousands of small and medium businesses which operate to their own standards but have nothing to measure them by.
He said: We evaluate a company’s background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors. We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience. The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics.
About The All-Ireland Business Foundation
The All-Ireland Business Foundation is an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of Best-in-Class Irish businesses.
As the accreditation body for the Business All-Star mark, the AIBF recognises Best-In-Class Irish businesses. Companies that merit recognition based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
Business All-Star Accreditation Is The Nation’s Symbol Of Trust.
Currently, there are over 650 companies that are accredited by AIBF. Since 2014, over 5000 companies have participated in our programs.
The AIBF also hosts the annual All-Ireland Summit and monthly gatherings to promote peer-learning and collaboration among its accredited companies.
January 19, 2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy, the story of Charles Fritts stands as a pivotal chapter. Often hailed as the father of solar power, Fritts made history in 1883 by creating the world’s first solar panel. This ground-breaking invention laid the foundation for the solar technology that powers our world today.
Charles Fritts was born in 1850, a forward-thinker who saw the potential of harnessing sunlight for energy long before it became a mainstream concept. Fritts was a man driven by a passion for innovation, and his work in the late 19th century laid the groundwork for modern solar technology.
In 1883, Fritts constructed the first solar cell by coating selenium with an extremely thin layer of gold. This simple yet revolutionary device marked the birth of photovoltaics – the conversion of light into electricity. While Fritts’ solar cell was not as efficient as contemporary solar panels, it demonstrated the fundamental principle of generating electricity from sunlight.
Fritts’ solar cell was based on the photovoltaic effect, a phenomenon where certain materials produce an electric current when exposed to light. The selenium-gold combination served as a photosensitive surface, generating a small electric current when illuminated. Fritts’ invention was a significant leap forward in understanding the potential of solar energy.
While Fritts’ solar cell had limited practical applications during his time, its creation set the stage for future advancements in solar technology. His work inspired subsequent generations of scientists and engineers to explore ways to improve the efficiency and viability of solar cells. The legacy of Fritts lives on in the ongoing quest for sustainable and clean energy solutions.
Over a century has passed since Fritts’ ground-breaking invention, and the field of solar technology has witnessed remarkable progress. Today’s solar panels, made from advanced materials like silicon, boast significantly higher efficiency levels, making them a viable and widespread source of renewable energy.
Charles Fritts’ contribution to the development of solar technology cannot be overstated. His pioneering work in1883 laid the foundation for the solar panels that now dot rooftops and power grids across the globe. As we continue to seek sustainable energy solutions, it’s essential to acknowledge and celebrate the visionaries like Charles Fritts who dared to imagine a future powered by the sun.
January 15, 2024
What a day we had our Connection offsite day at Castleknock Hotel for the entire Activ8 team on Friday 5th January. This was a historic day for us. It was the first day we as a company had all of our employees in the one room. Our employees travelled from our offices and bases all across the country to connect.
Our CEO, Ciaran Marron kicked us off with a brief summary into what we, as a company achieved in 2023. Followed by insights into our 2024 growth plans and strategy to deliver another fantastic year. Our Chief People Officer, Allison Morrissey, delivered an excellent panel discussion with our Technical Support Advisor, Alma Monaghan, our Chief Financial Officer Dermot Berine, our Head of Brand and Innovation, Jim Mc Eneaney, and our Store Operator, Mark Storey. The panel discussed our 5 values, what these values look like in practice and how they affect different departments within Activ8. Our 5 values are; accountability, respect and inclusion, innovation, safety, and quality.
It was a privilege to have Fergal Brophy on hand to deliver our Innovation Workshop alongside our own Chief Commercial Officer, Gary Connolly. This was a very powerful exercise and one our staff really enjoyed as we brought one of our values to life. We concluded the afternoon with an inspiring talk from former Irish Rugby International, Bernard Jackman. Bernard shared some excellent stories with us from his experience in working with high-performing teams in sport and business around the world that included Red Bull, Manchester United, Dyson to name check a few. After lunch we signed off the day with some Comedy Bingo and a lot of laughter from comedian Steve Bennett. A big thank you to our MC on the day Gerardine Lally who helped create an atmosphere on the day that was not only entertaining, but also left a lasting positive impression on our staff.
There were some key takeaways on our values, on innovation and connecting as a larger team. We focused on how we can continue to live our values through daily behaviours and working together and connecting as a team helps us deliver these values. We learned how innovation can’t be taught, but we can keep practicing it. With this, we learned how bringing together our people from different departments, with a diversity in skills, is the best recipe for true innovation.
Finally, we learned that coming together and connecting as a whole team can bring real energy ahead of another exciting year in Activ8!
January 12, 2024
In a remarkable display of commitment to sustainable energy, Portugal recently achieved a ground-breaking milestone by powering the entire country solely through renewable energy sources. The nation’s strides in the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar power, have positioned Portugal as a leading example in the global transition towards a greener and more sustainable future. Earlier this month, Portugal made headlines around the world as it successfully powered the entire country using renewable energy for an entire weekend. This achievement marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey toward sustainability, setting an example for others to follow.
While Portugal’s success encompasses various renewable energy sources, 6.6 GWh was generated from solar energy, according to the Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN), Portugal’s grid operator. The country’s investment in solar infrastructure and technology has propelled it to the forefront of the global solar energy landscape. Portugal’s ability to generate electricity from solar sources even during periods of low sunlight demonstrates the reliability and efficiency of its solar power infrastructure. This achievement not only underscores Portugal’s dedication to combating climate change but also highlights the feasibility of solar energy as a primary and reliable source of power.
In January this year, 88% of the country’s energy needs were supplied by renewables, up from 52% the January prior. Portugal’s remarkable achievement in powering the entire country with renewable energy, particularly through solar power, serves as an inspiring example for the rest of the world. It won’t stop here however, as Portugal aims to generate 80% of its of its annual electricity from renewable sources by 2026, and run the country entirely on renewables by 2040. This will be helped with the completion of Europe’s biggest solar farm and the fifth largest in the world. The 1,200MW solar project, which bears the poet Fernando Pessoa’s name, is scheduled to begin operations in 2025.
As nations like Ireland strive to meet ambitious climate goals and transition to sustainable energy sources, Portugal’s success stands as a testament to the viability and potential of solar power in leading the way toward a greener and more sustainable future.
For more information on Portugal’s renewable energy initiatives and its dedication to solar power, visit Activ8 Energies for the latest updates and insights.
November 22, 2023
At Activ8 Solar Energies, we’ve always had a vision for a cleaner, greener future. It’s not just about providing sustainable energy solutions for our clients but also about practicing what we preach. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a major milestone: we’ve produced more electricity than we consumed at our headquarters in NEXUS N2 Business Park, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, for four consecutive months – April, May, June, and July 2023. This achievement marks a significant step towards our commitment to sustainability.
Harnessing the Power of the Sun: Our success story begins with our state-of-the-art 121kWp solar PV system installed on the roof of our headquarters. This system has been a powerhouse of green energy, generating an impressive 20,915kWp of electricity in just four months from April to July. This resulted in a 4,102kWp surplus in energy, a surplus with a purpose – to reduce our carbon footprint and promote renewable energy adoption.
Going Beyond Expectations: From March to August 2023, we continued to surpass expectations, producing an overall excess of 902kWp. This remarkable achievement is not just about numbers; it’s about making a real impact on the environment.
Environmental Impact: The numbers tell a compelling story of our commitment to sustainability. From October 2022 to August 2023 our solar PV system has offset 12 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. To put this in perspective, that’s equivalent to:
· Planting 534 Trees
Trees are nature’s carbon sequestrators. We’ve effectively replicated the carbon-absorbing power of 534 trees.
· Powering 10 Households
The energy produced by our solar system could power ten average households for an entire year, reducing their reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
We’re not just helping our clients transition to cleaner energy; we’re leading by example. Our solar PV system’s performance speaks volumes about the potential for renewable energy to reshape our world. At Activ8 Solar Energies, we believe that every small step towards sustainability counts, and our achievements in Carrickmacross are a testament to that belief. We hope that our success will inspire others to embrace green energy and reduce their carbon footprint.
As we move forward, we remain committed to innovation and excellence in sustainable energy solutions. Together, we can make a difference, and our rooftop solar PV system is a shining example of what’s possible when we harness the power of the sun. For more information about how Activ8 Solar Energies can help power your home, click here.
The performance of our solar PV system here at headquarters is a case study in itself, you can read all of our commercial case studies by clicking here.
September 29, 2023
September 08 2023: Activ8 Solar Energies, Ireland’s premier domestic and commercial solar company, today announced the agreement with Monaghan GAA County Board for the sponsorship of both Monaghan’s men’s football and hurling teams for the next three years. The sponsorship sets the stage for an exciting era of growth and development with the GAA in Monaghan.
Activ8 is the first Monaghan based business to sponsor Monaghan GAA in 20 years. Under the partnership, Activ8’s sponsorship will also include Monaghan GAA’s development squads right through to senior level in both codes. The commitment is not just a financial one; it is a shared mission to empower athletes and promote the development of young talents in the farney county.
A key condition of the new sponsorship agreement is the annual budget investment into the strength, conditioning and athletic development of players progressing from minor level before they make the next step into senior ranks. This commitment underscores Activ8’s dedication to nurturing local talent and ensuring that Monaghan GAA’s future stars have the tools and resources they need to succeed at the highest level. It is important to Activ8 Solar Energies to invest in the player development pathway that already exists within Monaghan GAA and make sure it continues to excel and underpins why the sponsorship covers all Monaghan GAA teams.
Activ8 Solar Energies is Ireland’s longest established solar installation company since its establishment in 2007 with over 18,000 customers across Ireland. Activ8 installations across Ireland are generating a combined 59 MWh on an annual basis. More information on the company can be found on their website https://www.activ8energies.com/.
Ciaran Marron, CEO and Founder of Activ8 Solar Energies and finalist in this year’s EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying: “As a Monaghan headquartered company, Activ8 is proud to announce the agreement with Monaghan GAA to sponsor all teams from underage development squads right through to our senior teams. This partnership with Monaghan GAA is an embodiment of our commitment to sustainability, growth, and progress and we are excited to be part of MonaghanGAA’s journey.”
Declan Flanagan, Chairman of the Monaghan GAA County Board, shared his thoughts on this exciting collaboration, stating: “Monaghan GAA is delighted to join forces with Activ8, a company that shares our vision for excellence and community development. This partnership not only strengthens our Senior Men’s Football and Hurling teams but also empowers our young players at the grassroots level. We look forward to a prosperous and successful journey together.”
This sponsorship agreement promises to build a stronger partnership between sustainability, sports, and community development, reflecting the shared values and commitment to excellence of Activ8 and Monaghan GAA.
The new Activ8 Monaghan GAA county jerseys will be launched in the coming months in the lead up to Christmas.
September 8, 2023
Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan 21st/22ndAugust 2023: Activ8 Energies, Ireland’s premier commercial solar panel company, today announced the strategic acquisition of Allbrite, a leading heat pump company in Ireland. With a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, this merger acquisition consolidates Activ8’s position as a pioneering force in renewable energy solutions inIreland, combining its renowned solar expertise with Allbrite’s impressive heat pump knowledge. The amount of the transaction is undisclosed.
Since its establishment in 2007, Activ8 has been to the forefront of Ireland’s solar revolution, with in excess of 17,500 solar panel installations. As the trusted voice of solar power across the island, the company has transformed the energy landscape, offering innovative solutions that align with environmental and economic goals. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of its services and underlines its dedication to providing comprehensive, sustainable energy solutions.
In June 2022 the company, which now employs 185, moved into a new headquarters in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. SSE Airtricity is a 50% joint venture partner with Activ8 Solar Energies.
Founded by Alan Duffy in 2002, Allbrite has built a positive reputation and is renowned for its commitment to excellence. With a staff of over thirty, the company completes around five hundred installations annually and is one of Ireland’s largest heat pump installers. Allbrite’s impressive portfolio includes key projects for Limerick County Council and the groundbreaking district heating system for Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council. It was previously a winner of awarded the”Sustainable Excellence of the Year” accolade in 2008.
In line with the governments Climate Action Plan and a target of 600,00 heat pump installations by 2030, there is a clear roadmap ahead. With Activ8’s backing and integration into the “One Stop Shop” model, there is an anticipation for a surge in heat pump installations with projected growth to 1,100 heat pump installations per year in the next two years and establishing Allbrite as the largest heat pump installer in the country moving forward. With this planned growth comes the need for an additional 30 jobs to be created in Allbrite within. the next 12 months. With a current fleet of thirteen vans, the expanded enterprise will become the premier destination for comprehensive, sustainable energy installations.
Commenting on the acquisition, Ciaran Marron, CEO of Activ8 Energies, and a nominee for the 2023 EY Entrepreneur of theYear, said: “This is a pivotal moment for Activ8 as we broaden our renewables energy footprint. Our companies have been working together in partnership since 2017 on a range of retrofit projects acrossIreland. This strategic partnership formalises our relationship with Allbrite and reflects our shared vision for a sustainable future. By integrating our expertise and resources, we are poised to lead the industry forward, offering unmatched energy solutions that will empower businesses and communities acrossIreland.”
Alan Duffy, CEO of Allbrite, echoed this sentiment, stating: “Joining forces with Activ8 is a testament to the shared values and commitment of our two companies. We are excited to combine our heat pump excellence with Activ8’s market-leading solar solutions, propelling us to the forefront of Ireland’s renewable energy landscape with the target of becoming the largest heat pump installer in Ireland within the next 12 months.”
August 24, 2023
In recent news, it has been reported that the government is in the process of announcing a new grant scheme to support businesses in installing solar PV panels. The scheme, proposed by Minister Eamon Ryan and Minister Simon Coveney, will offer tiered grants ranging from €2,700 to €162,500 for the installation of panels and associated infrastructure on non-residential commercial and public sector buildings. The intention is to support smaller businesses with lower output systems, as well as larger installations for establishments like pharmaceutical plants or large retail outlets. The envisaged scheme is to be brought to Cabinet today, Tuesday and will initially run until the end of 2025, with the potential for extension.
This new grant scheme brings several benefits for businesses. Firstly, it significantly reduces the upfront costs of installing solar PV panels, making them more financially viable and accessible. By taking advantage of the grants, businesses can transition to a sustainable and renewable energy source while enjoying long-term savings on energy bills. This not only reduces their carbon footprint but also demonstrates their commitment to environmental responsibility, which can enhance their reputation and attract eco-conscious customers. Additionally, the scheme expands the support available for commercial establishments, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can participate in the transition towards clean energy and contribute to a greener future.
Our CEO, Ciaran Marron had this to say on the news, “This proposed initiative provides a significant boost for the renewable energy sector, enabling more businesses to embrace solar power and contribute to a sustainable future. The availability of grants like this along with the 0% VAT on residential installations not only reduces financial barriers but also demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting clean energy. We are excited to continue to work with businesses of all sizes, helping them harness the power of solar PV panels to drive down carbon emissions, lower operational costs, and build a greener and more resilient economy.”
July 4, 2023
In today’s environmentally conscious world, businesses are increasingly turning to sustainable solutions to reduce their carbon footprint and operating costs. Solar power in the European Union (EU) saw a significant increase of almost 50% in 2022. Solar panels offer a clean, renewable source of power that can not only help businesses become more environmentally friendly but also provide numerous benefits for their bottom line. In this blog post, we will explore how solar PV can benefit your company and how Activ8 can help provide effective energy solutions for you.
1. Cost Savings:
One of the most significant advantages of solar panels for businesses is the potential for substantial cost savings. By generating electricity from the sun, businesses can significantly reduce their dependence on the traditional power grid and lower their monthly energy bills, just like many of our clients have done, view our case studies to learn more. Solar energy can provide long-term stability against rising electricity costs, enabling businesses to allocate their resources more efficiently.
2. Return on Investment (ROI):
Investing in solar PV for your business can offer an attractive return on investment. While the up front costs may seem significant, the long-term savings and potential revenue streams can outweigh the initial investment. Depending on factors such as the size of the installation, government incentives, and local regulations, many businesses achieve payback periods within 3-7 years. After that, the electricity generated by solar panels becomes essentially free, generating savings and potential revenue for decades to come.
3. Tax Incentives and Rebates:
The Irish government provides attractive tax incentives and rebates to encourage businesses to adopt renewable energy solutions like solar panels. By taking advantage of these programs, businesses can maximise their financial benefits and make solar energy an even more appealing option.
4. Environmental Impact:
Embracing solar energy solutions demonstrates your company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By reducing your dependence on fossil fuels and generating clean, renewable energy, your business can significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also enhances your brand image, attracting eco-conscious customers and partners who value sustainability. By prominently showcasing your solar panels and highlighting your commitment to clean energy, you can attract environmentally conscious customers, enhance your brand reputation, and differentiate yourself from competitors.
5. Energy Independence and Resilience:
Solar panels can provide businesses with a sense of energy independence and resilience. By generating their electricity on-site, companies are less susceptible to power outages and disruptions in the grid. This can be especially crucial for businesses that rely heavily on uninterrupted power supply, such as data centres, hospitals, and manufacturing facilities. At Activ8 we have first-hand experience of this with a 121Kwp solar system installed, thanks to this and other sustainable measures we have in place we achieved net zero in April and May so far this year.
Solar energy solutions offer numerous benefits for businesses, ranging from cost savings and attractive ROI to environmental impact and marketing advantages. Investing in solar panels can help your company become more sustainable, reduce energy costs, and demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility. With various financial incentives available, now is an ideal time to explore solar energy solutions for your business. By embracing clean and renewable energy, you can secure a brighter and more sustainable future for your company while making a positive impact on the planet, just as Activ8 clients have done so in the retail, manufacturing, transportation, building, pharmaceutical, meat, and storage industries. If you would like to find out more information on how Activ8 Solar Energies can help you begin your solar process click here.
June 26, 2023
From our partners, SSE Airtricity:
The new super solar saver means customers will be paid even more for solar energy they export back to the grid.
SSE Airtricity, along with our team here at Activ8, have launched a new solar product that will ensure customers are paid a market leading 34c per kWh for excess solar energy produced and exported back to the grid. New and existing SSE Airtricity customers who have had their solar panels installed with Activ8 from April 13, 2023, will be eligible to be paid a premium of 10 cent per kWh exported on top of the current 24 cent export rate, for two years.
The product launch comes as the Irish government abolished the rate of VAT for domestic solar installations from May 1, 2023. This offer complements the existing range of energy solutions SSE offers customers, providing easy access to green energy and improving energy efficiency in homes across the country.
Solar panel installations have many benefits:
Helen Ryan, from County Louth, who had her solar installation completed recently with Activ8, said:
“We decided to install solar panels to help save on our electricity bills as well as wanting to produce renewable energy on our own. We have a gas boiler, so being able to generate so much hot water was also a massive reason as to why we went with solar panels.
“We have noticed a big difference in our bills, even for the months of January, February and March. Our electricity bills are currently 30% of what they were and that’s not accounting for our savings on gas with our hot water production from the solar panels. It’s funny how we changed our usage behaviours so quickly after installation too. My parents are awaiting a survey now after seeing our panels in action, so I would definitely recommend them.”
Klair Neenan, Director at SSE Airtricity said:
“As a company with green in our DNA, we know that customers want easy access to green energy solutions that help them and the environment. At SSE Airtricity we want to empower our customers and be their one stop shop for all energy related matters. With 0% Vat and up to €2,400 available in SEAI Grants, there has never been a better time to invest in renewable solar energy and offset rising energy costs. Families and households can generate their own electricity for their home and lower their bills, all while contributing to the ultimate goal of net zero.”
May 2, 2023
On Wednesday the 5th of April the government accepted a report stage amendment to the Finance Bill 2023 proposed by Minister of Finance Michael McGrath. The Bill gives legislative effect to the taxation measures that the government recently proposed with the aim of continuing to help people and companies deal with the problems of high energy costs and cost of living issues. Recently, a new solar panel-related measure was approved.
With a zero rate of VAT now available to consumers, it is sought to reduce the average cost of the supply and installation of solar panels for customers by €1,000 and would thus help support households reducing their electricity bills, according to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. The Department of Finance has estimated that the measure will cost €19 million annually.
Speaking about the introduction of this VAT amendment, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath stated:
“This measure underlines the government’s commitment to help households to save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to our national climate change targets.”
At Activ8, we believe that this is a significant step in the right direction for the solar industry, and it will undoubtedly provide a much-welcomed boost to the adoption of solar energy across the country. Especially at this crucial juncture, with our collective efforts as a nation to meet ambitious solar targets. Targets outlined as part of the most recent Climate Action Plan published by this government. Our CEO Ciaran Marron had this to say about the introduction of the zero VAT rate:
“This is great news for the Irish solar industry as a whole. Having been working hard over the past number of weeks alongside the ISEA and government agencies to get a clearer picture of how this would be rolled out, we are absolutely delighted Irish homeowners are being put in a position to succeed with their own renewable energy targets and generate their own clean, green electricity. This measure reduces the cost of installation and that is a great thing for Activ8 customers and Irish homeowners at large.”
May 1, 2023
We want to take this opportunity to reflect on the forthcoming introduction of a 0% VAT rate on solar and what that means for customers, installers and all of those interested in solar panel installations in 2023. Firstly, we believe that this is a significant step in the right direction for the solar industry, and it will undoubtedly provide a much-welcomed boost to the adoption of solar energy across the country. Especially at this crucial juncture, with our collective efforts as a nation to meet ambitious solar targets. Targets outlined as part of the most recent Climate Action Plan published by this government.
However, there are some very practical concerns for all stakeholders in the Irish solar industry. As Ireland’s largest solar installer, we feel it is imperative that we take this opportunity to address these concerns for all involved. Primarily, we are concerned that the announcement of this new policy will result in a delay in the installation of solar panels for many of our customers. They have been placed in a precarious position of being punished for their progressive action in proceeding with the installation of solar panels. And who can blame them for their current hesitation in proceeding with installation when they can foresee the introduction of 0% VAT. As we understand it, the implementation of the 0% VAT rate on solar may take up to three months, and this delay will force our customers to postpone their installations until the policy is rolled out. As we have explained to many of our customers already, this is our current understanding.
This delay will have a significant impact on our business and our workforce. As a company with more than 180 staff, the inability to complete work will leave many of them idle. Having worked extremely hard to increase our capacity over the last six months to meet increased demand across the country and help deliver the governments ambitious solar installation targets, this situation is very disappointing and will be financially challenging for our company and our employees, and it will set back the progress of the solar industry in the short-term.
We would urge the government to consider the impact of this delay on all stakeholders and take steps to minimise its impact. We would be happy to work with the government to show where implementation of this new policy could be as smooth and efficient as possible, and that the installation of solar panels can continue without interruption. As we look towards the targets set out in the Climate Action Plan, we are all aware of how important weeks and months are in putting our best foot forward and delivering on these solar targets. There are a number of VAT rebate strategies that have been used by this government in the past to help deliver government programmes. In particular, the old HRI (Home Renovation Incentive) VAT Rebate scheme is one that stands out as a practical solution for short-term implementation, whereby the customer can rebate the VAT on installations between today and the rollout of the new 0% VAT rate. Even a simple announcement of assurance that such an interim measure would be set in place would help the solar industry at a residential level and prevent it from grinding to a halt for the next number of months.
Ciaran Marron, CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies
To our customers. We are doing everything we can to make representations on your behalf and express the real concerns that you have had since hearing this news. We all know this is a progressive step for the future of solar energy in Ireland, but it would be remiss of us not to make representations on your behalf to find a short-term solution to a short-term problem. We have navigated such changes in the past and endeavour to do the same again.
Statement last updated: 09:45, 4th April, 2023.
April 4, 2023
Solar energy has been growing rapidly in recent years, and Europe is leading the charge. In fact, a recent report from Forbes has revealed that solar and wind power in Europe have surpassed gas power for the first time. This is a significant milestone that highlights the growth and importance of renewable energy sources in Europe.
According to the Forbes article, solar and wind power now account for more than 40% of Europe’s electricity generation capacity, compared to gas power’s 37%. This shift towards renewable energy sources is largely driven by government policies that support clean energy and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of fossil fuels. A recent report by the World Economic Forum highlights that Europe’s renewable energy capacity is set to grow significantly in 2023. According to the report, the average prediction for 2023 is that renewable energy capacity in Europe will grow by 25 gigawatts (GW), with solar power contributing the most to this increase. The report also suggests that Europe’s renewable energy capacity will continue to grow in the coming years and reach 484 GW by 2026. This growth is essential as it will not only help reduce carbon emissions but also address the current energy crisis in Europe.
One country in Europe that has seen significant growth in solar energy is Ireland. Ireland is on track to meet its 70% renewable electricity target by 2030, with solar energy playing a key role in this achievement.
Solar energy capacity in Ireland has grown by 400% in the past five years alone. This growth is expected to continue in the coming years, with more than 800 MW of solar projects in the pipeline.
So, what is driving this growth in solar energy in Ireland? The answer is down to several factors, including falling costs of solar panels, government incentives for renewable energy projects, and a growing demand for clean energy from businesses and consumers.
By investing in renewable energy, Europe can ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply while promoting economic growth and job creation. The growth of the European solar market is, therefore, a step towards a more sustainable future, and continued investment and innovation in renewable energy will be crucial to ensuring its success. As governments and businesses continue to invest in clean energy, we can expect to see even more growth and innovation in the years to come.
Would you like to join the solar revolution? Click here to learn more about solar and how we can help you start your journey.
March 30, 2023
According to a new report, solar power in the European Union (EU) saw a significant increase of almost 50% in 2022. This impressive growth is a testament to the increasing adoption of solar PV as a renewable energy source and the commitment of EU member states to reducing their carbon emissions through the growth of renewable energy such as solar.
The report, released by SolarPower Europe, shows that the increase in solar power was largely driven by new installations in countries such as France, Italy, and Spain. We are yet to see official statistics here in Ireland through the SEAI, but as Ireland’s largest installer of solar panels we know that 2022 saw outstanding growth in installations and overall adoption of solar PV as a technology for residential homes and businesses across Ireland.
Growth across Europe can be attributed to favourable government policies and incentives and we have experienced this first hand in Ireland with the introduction of the SEAI Solar PV Grant in July 2018 and the introduction of the Microgeneration scheme in 2022 where homeowners will be paid for the energy they export to the grid. Our own partners, SSE Airtricity, have set their export rate at 24c per kWh – the leading export rate in the current Irish market. There is no doubt that these policies have helped to make solar power more financially viable for individuals and businesses, leading to increased adoption.
The growth of solar power in the EU is expected to continue in the coming years, as the EU has set ambitious targets for the expansion of renewable energy. Under the European Green Deal, the EU aims to become climate neutral by 2050, and increasing the use of solar power is a key part of this plan. In order to achieve this goal, the EU has committed to increasing the share of renewables in its energy mix to at least 32% by 2030.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the growth of solar power also brings economic benefits. The solar industry is a major employer in the EU, with over 250,000 people working in the sector. As the demand for solar power increases, it is likely that this number will continue to grow. The expansion of the solar industry has also led to the creation of new businesses and the development of innovative technologies.
While there is still a long way to go in terms of fully transitioning to renewable energy, the significant increase in solar power in the EU is a promising step in the right direction. With continued support and investment, it is likely that we will see even more impressive growth in the coming years. It is important for governments to continue to implement policies and incentives that support the adoption of renewable energy sources, in order to help achieve a more sustainable future and in particular, a more balanced energy mix that cannot become so disrupted by war.
January 5, 2023
We are absolutely delighted to welcome the news that all domestic solar and certain non-domestic solar is now planning exempt. This is great news for homeowners and businesses that want to contribute to Ireland’s climate change efforts by adding solar panels to their rooftops allowing them to produce clean, green electricity to power their homes and businesses. Even better again, they can also export excess electricity back into the national grid and receive payment/credit for doing this – furthering the renewable energy generated on their rooftops.
It’s a progressive step from the Irish government and the legislation took effect immediately upon being signed into law by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien.
The government press release focuses on several prominent points;
The Irish government are introducing this legislation with the objective of bringing Ireland into line with the EU’s Solar Rooftops Initiative by making permitting procedures for installing solar on rooftops shorter and simpler.
With the EU looking towards new renewable energy policies and regulations amid a worsening energy crisis, this latest legislative change on solar panels from the Irish government are welcomed by everyone in the renewable energy space.
In line with the worsening energy crisis, is the need for change against the backdrop of climate change concerns here in Ireland and across the world. As Ireland’s largest installer of solar panels, we’re excited by the overall solar targets in the government’s Climate Action Plan. With a target of 380MW of microgeneration capacity (approximately 1 million solar panels), we would be looking to generate roughly 300GWh of renewable electricity per annum and offset over 1.4m tonnes of CO2eq across the lifetime of these solar installations. Along with the introduction of the Microgeneration scheme, this is a most welcome statement of intent from the Minister and his government.
Additionally, Minister O’Brien said:
“With these new exemptions we are removing barriers and ensuring that individuals, communities, businesses and farms can generate their own electricity, reduce their own bills and play their part in creating a zero-carbon future fuelled by renewable energy. These changes will facilitate the rollout of rooftop solar panels and, coupled with the government-supported SEAI Solar PV grant, will see more people install solar panels across the country. This has the added benefit of increasing Ireland’s energy security, a major challenge given current energy pressures. These regulations implement an important commitment in the Programme for Government and will help Ireland meet the government’s Climate Action Plan targets.”
For our domestic customers and those interested in installing solar panels on their home – the legislation states that “For solar panel installations on houses: there is no limit to the area of solar panels which can be installed on rooftops of homes, anywhere in the country. Solar installations will be able to cover the entire roof of a house. The 12sqm/ 50% roof limit which previously applied to houses has been removed nationwide.”
For more information on the exemptions, you can find it at the following link:
Solar Planning Exemptions
We look forward to solar playing its part in transforming the Irish energy landscape alongside other renewable technologies such as on and offshore wind, hydro and more.
November 11, 2022
We were absolutely delighted to welcome, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin to officially open our new state-of-the-art headquarters in the NEXUS N2 Business Park in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. The Taoiseach was accompanied by Minister Heather Humphreys, who hails from the Cavan-Monaghan constituency where Activ8 has been growing since 2006. We were also lucky to have local TD’s, senators and councillors in attendance also. Alongside us to welcome all of the dignitaries in attendance, we were lucky to have Nikki Flanders (Managing Director Energy Customer Solutions at SSE plc) on behalf of SSE Airtricity.
This new 20,000-square-foot facility is a leading commercial building in terms of energy efficiency and renewable energy production. The A1 energy-rated building is one of the first NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) commercial buildings in the county of Monaghan. We actually produce more energy on-site than we consume and the building itself is completely fitted out with highly efficient heatpumps, LED lighting, rain water harvesting, and the highly insulated building envelope further enhances the energy efficiency measures in place.
Upon taking to the podium, our CEO Ciaran Marron stressed the importance of leading the way.
We are the leading installer of solar panels in Ireland. Leadership is not a position or a title, it is action and example. I feel our new headquarters and the energy efficiency measures incorporated into the design and delivery of this building is the example and action we want to set as a progressive renewable energy company. This facility is a crucial step in being able to help deliver the aims and objectives of the current Climate Action Plan.
With over 14,000 customers and in excess of 100,000 solar panels installed on Irish rooftops, our installations produce over 36,000,000kWh of energy each year. Our business has seen exponential growth in the past two years with staff numbers growing 100% in the same period, recently crossing 140 staff members.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin was excited about the role solar will need to play in striving for accelerated climate action in Ireland and how it will help Irish homes and businesses generate their own renewable electricity whilst also being compensated through the microgeneration scheme when they feed excess electricity back into the national grid. He discussed the important behavioural changes across Ireland in adjusting to the science and knowing, as a nation, that we need to do more to help reverse the rapid effects of climate change that has resulted in extreme weather events and disrupted natural climate cycles. An Taoiseach spoke about these issues with a sense of purpose and for a company in the renewable energy space, this is very important.
Commenting on the successful opening of the new A1 rated Activ8 Solar Energies Headquarters and the creation of 200 jobs;
I am delighted to open this new state-of-the-art Activ8 Solar Energies Headquarters and the 200 green jobs that it will provide. This facility will have a positive impact on the North-East region moving towards a carbon-neutral economy and will result in a significant increase in the production of solar panels, which will ensure more sustainable options being offered to businesses and customers across Ireland. I would like to wish every success to Activ8 Solar Energies and its employees here at this new facility.”
August 31, 2022
The theme on Friday past for this years“Earth Day” was “Invest In Our Planet”. This could also be phrased “Invest In Our Future” as it feels like we are in a race against time to make lasting, generational changes to global energy policies. It’s hard enough to make changes at national level it seems, never mind global. But this investment in ourselves is absolutely crucial for the planet we live on and keeping it liveable.
Although Earth Day falls annually at the same time, this year it becomes even more relevant given the stark warnings that transpired upon the release of the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report from the UN*. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, could have been stronger on the issue. He concluded that the report was emphatic in indicating that harmful carbon emissions from 2010-2019 have never been higher in human history, proof that the world is on a “fast track” to disaster, and that scientists are stressing that it’s ‘now or never’ to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees.
All countries must reduce their fossil fuel use substantially, extend access to electricity, improve energy efficiency and increase the use of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen.
As far as the scienceis concerned, unless action is taken soon, some major cities will be underwater. That would not be all. Mr. Guterres went on, there will be “unprecedented heatwaves, terrifying storms, widespread water shortages and the extinction ofa million species of plants and animals” unless we start implementing lasting change.
We can only really comment on our efforts here in Ireland. In terms of where we sit on climate scepticism, national commentary would suggest that it isn’t as big an issue in Ireland as it is in other parts of the world. Where we regularly see climate change, asa concept, called into question. The Climate Action Plan in 2021 goes a long way to suggest that the Irish government is serious about tackling the issue.
Plans and documents are made up of targets. Targets are words on a piece of paper. Success in regards to this plan will ultimately come down to action. Action at a national, local and even personal level. Incentives, grants and schemes will only work on the basis that the Irish people see value in them. Be it monetary or environmentally, or both.
Here is some headline actions outlined from the Climate Action Plan** that the government feel need to happen for us to reach overall targets:
Here in Activ8 SolarEnergies, it’s great to see the first headline here involving renewable energy –it is without doubt, one of the most important areas we can tackle in a country such as ours. It’s almost important to note that the Climate Action Plan willbe updated annually to account for changes along the way.
There is a clear roadmap for homeowners who want to do their part and also take advantage of solar technology that can help them save money on their energy bills going forward. You see more on our grants page by clicking here.
*UN Report Link:
https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/04/1115452
**Information sourced from Citizens Information:
https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/environment/air/ireland’s_targets_to_reduce_air_pollution.html
April 25, 2022
Microgeneration is the general term used to refer to small-scale solar PV generation of electricity as well as other renewable technologies, such as wind and combined heat and power (CHP). This type of generation allows domestic users to produce their own electricity on site, as an alternative or supplement to electricity imported from the grid from their chosen electricity supplier.
We have always sized solar PV systems to the anticipated electricity demand of your home but it has been confirmed that from early 2022, microgeneration is set to take a step forward with the introduction of the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) for all solar PV users. This means that while the majority of the energy produced will be used to power your home, from time to time, when there is surplus electricity from your microgeneration you can export this to the grid and receive a payment for it in return. By reducing your dependency on the national grid and increasing the volume of solar PV supplied to the grid from your home or business you can actively contribute to a greener, cleaner Ireland while reducing your own energy bills.
If you’re interested in microgeneration for your home, see our Solar PV page.
However, if you already have a microgeneration install there are a few things you need to know.
For homeowners and businesses who want to receive payments ESB Networks first need to be notified of your microgeneration install so they can start recording your export to the grid. Do not worry, this has been completed on your behalf by the Activ8 Solar Energies team.
It’s important to note what type of meter is installed in your home as this will impact what type of payment you can expect to receive for exported electricity. It’s also important to note that this part of the process is not under the control of ACtiv8 Solar Energies – this is under the control of ESB Networks.
If you meet the eligibility criteria (completed NC6 form and smart meter installed), you will be paid a measured Clean Export Guarantee for the export at a per kWh basis.
How is the deemed export calculated?
The calculation of the deemed export is based on the following factors and has been set by the CRU. Click the formula below for the PDF on how this is calculated.
Deemed Export Quantity = MEC X Capacity Factor X Export Factor X Provision Interval
It’s important to note that payment of the measured and deemed Clean Export Guarantee is entirely separate from the current SEAI Solar PV grant you have received (or may be considering). If you are considering solar PV with Activ8, you may be eligible for the SEAI Solar PV grant and now, for the first time ever, you’ll get paid for the excess electricity you generate but don’t use and therefore send/sell back to the national grid.
When can you expect to receive a payment?
We will try our best to share news and updates from electricity suppliers in Ireland on when they will deliver the first payment and the details surrounding how each supplier will deliver this.
January 18, 2022
With over 15 years of experience in the Irish solar industry, we understand it can be difficult to navigate the procurement process of the right solar panel installer. We’ve helped our fair share of both commercial and domestic customers in our time. As solar comes to the forefront of people’s minds, the number of options open to you is greater than ever. This is a great thing for us as an industry and for you as a potential solar energy producer. But as a commercial entity in the commercial and industrial sector, diligence and care is of the utmost importance as we enter 2022.
“Solar PV remains the powerhouse of growth in renewable electricity, with its capacity additions forecast to increase by 17% in 2021 to a new record of almost 160 GW.”
The proliferation of solar PV globally has been reflected by its growth here in Ireland also. Many people now realise the efficiency of solar PV in our climate and debunking the myth of it being an isolated solution in sunnier climates such as Spain, Australia, and the like. With its growth in the Irish market and our experience of the industry on our island, it’s very important to remember that there are a number of steps you can take to make sure you are working with a suitable operator.
A recent installation for McArdle Skeath in Inniskeen, Co. Monaghan. They also installed a second system on their Hollystown premises in Dublin.
You need to establish that the solar company you want to partner with has the adequate experience or at least shown the adequate skills on similar installations to carry out the scale of installation you are planning. This should be the foremost question when going to tender – can they do it?
The most indicative way of showing you will be there for a client in the future is to show how you have been there for other clients in the past. Of course, this isn’t all-encompassing when you consider that everyone must start somewhere. But it should be important for you to understand that if you are installing a solar PV system on your premises in 2022 and warranties for this are there in 2027, 2032 and so forth – these warranties may only exist on the basis that your chosen installer is still in operation – so it’s important to consider whether or not they will be there for you in 2025 and beyond. Some things to look at here would be credit checks and checking the companies financial standing through their previous years accounts filings. Simple tools such as SoloCheck or Credit Safe allow you to perform some simple financial due diligence. They can also make you aware of any backings behind the company. For example, we are 50% owned by SSE Airtricity which offers reassurance of our standing in the market now and long into the future.
When making the decision to pursue solar, you want to make sure you’re dealing with a trusted installer whereby the design of the project, the project managers and engineers managing this are in-house. When an installer is designing and managing a project in-house, they know that they’ll have full responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the system post-installation. They’ll therefore go to the lengths required to make sure that the design of the system, product used, and installation measures are all of the highest quality to guarantee a high performing system is in place for many years afterwards.
For example, you could check the staff numbers of any given “supplier/installer” – low head count means that they will be outsourcing many of the required processes involved in designing and installing your system. Bringing in contract workers to design a project is not ideal as once that contract is over, the expertise leaves with it. With over 60 people directly employed by us here in Activ8 our full-time staff are here to bring you from onboarding right through to operation and maintenance in years to come.
It’s very important that high quality, tested product is used on your system. It is only through longevity and experience that a supplier can testify for the components they use. Dealing with inverters, panels and switch gear manufacturers over many years allows you to truly understand the reliability and ease of use that different product provide when they are installed and put into operation here in Ireland. It’s important that any selected installer has a relationship with suppliers built up over time – rather than using an installation partner that is choosing product based on price and availability for any given job.
This feeds into the quality of product and relationship management mentioned above as well as the overall health of the installer you are choosing. If there are product or installation issues several years post-installation, it’s important first of all that your chosen installation partner is still in operation and that they have the appropriate channels established to help deal with any potential product issues that may arise
November 15, 2021
In a welcome development, the Irish government, through Minister Eamon Ryan (Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications) announced that the design and consultation process was beginning in order to formulate how the scheme will look and function. Submissions for this are being accepted until Thursday February 18th. There are currently no support schemes in place and while we recently discussed the explosion in solar providers since the arrival of the SEAI solar PV grant at the end of July 2018, it was a very welcome addition to the government’s strategy in encouraging micro-generation in private homes for the proliferation of solar pv and renewable energy throughout Ireland. This is the next step in our national goal of reducing carbon emissions. It’s important that this feed-in tariff is brought in with micro-generation at the heart of it and here’s why.
When looking at the sectoral output of carbon emissions in Ireland, we know that the top 3 can be targeted and reduced by renewable energy projects. The top 3, are 1. Agriculture, 2. Energy and 3. Transport – with transport being the biggest mover from 1990 levels up to the current day. With agriculture, Irish farmers are known for being one of the most efficient nations in the world in how they operate. There are efforts being made all the time to further eliminate or offset emissions in this industry. We’re even involved in this ourselves with our partners SSE Airtricity and Glanbia Ireland through FarmGen. When it comes to a micro-generation feed-in tariff, of course this will further incentivise farmers, but there is a greater opportunity in Ireland with domestic households and how they are projected to evolve over this decade. Through this avenue, we can tackle both the energy sector and the transport sector. The SEAI is already incentivising the sales of EVs here in Ireland and it is only a matter of time before they reach parity and then become cheaper to manufacture in comparison to their petrol/diesel-powered counterparts. So when we think of the evolution of transport in this country, we can’t just depend on industry to implement these changes. We’ve seen how An Post has managed to eliminate much of its fossil fuel-powered fleet and replace it with electric mobility – they managed to make Dublin the first capital city in the entire world with zero emissions postal delivery and they are to be commended for such. It’s time to place the power of change in the hands of the homeowner. With expected cost parity in the years to come for electric vehicles, we need the foresight to implement changes in our electricity/energy mix at a domestic level so that homeowners are ready to buy an electrical vehicle and have the ability to generate electricity in their homes. This way, we tackle both the energy sector and the transport sector through micro-generation in Irish homes.
It’s important to learn from appropriate case studies, not only how they were implemented, but more importantly, what worked and what didn’t. Unfortunately, being in a position to learn and look back on foreign policy shows that we are way behind. In Germany, their guaranteed feed-in tariffs under Germany’s Renewable Energy Act (EEG) saw the share of renewable power, mostly coming from wind, solar PV and biomass, in electricity generation rise from about 3.5 percent in 1990 to 35 percent in 2018. But as of 2021, more and more renewable installations will lose their guaranteed funding as their 20 years of EEG payments come to an end. 20 years! Germany is at the end of their first feed-in tariff programme and for domestic solar, there are issues around fluctuating price points due to the old technology for metering – whereas we won’t face that issue in Ireland with the modern technology available for metering purposes. So we do have technology on our side.
It is important to note that as time moves and technology grows, it can be hard to see the slow-moving changes in one persons attitude, nevermind an entire nation. We feel that the appetite for countering climate change in Ireland has been consistently improving. There have always been steadfast advocates in this regard, but it’s important that they are supported by more and more as the need becomes greater. No less, the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan that announced this consultation, has been a strong advocate in this area for many years. A younger Minister Ryan can be seen at the opening of our first head office in May of 2009 in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. The same place where we are currently building our brand new headquarters, to help us continue our growth in the years ahead.
We look forward to the consultation process and working both internally and with our dedicated partners in providing submissions to try and make sure our customers are justly rewarded for their generation and that we create a fair and equitable microgeneration market that encourages many more homeowners and businesses to start generating renewable electricity through the installation of solar panels.
As a company that prides itself on our quality of service, we would love to hear from our customers and solar enthusiasts on what issues they would like addressed in the consultation phase and what they want to see incorporated as part of the scheme, you can send any and all submissions to info@activ8energies.com.
January 27, 2021
With the year that we’ve had and the inability for us to have our usual social club outings, we used our social club fund for a Christmas Draw bonanza. And more importantly, we wanted to support as many local businesses as possible. As the scramble comes for last-minute Christmas presents please try and support these local businesses if you can.
They sponsor our local clubs and community events, they hire local staff and support so much more than we think.
A massive congrats to our Social Club team who managed to spread the fund across so many businesses, organise a fantastic draw for our staff all whilst pumping €5,700 into our local community!
Here is a list of the businesses:
Cloughvalley Stores (Quinn’s voucher)
Valley Lodge Voucher
Shirley Arms Voucher
Super Valu Voucher
Sinead’s Place Gifts & Hardware Voucher
Taveys Menswear Voucher
Steeles Menswear Voucher
Beauty Lane by Paulina Voucher
The Ivy Voucher
Fade Barber Shop Voucher
Chamber of Commerce Voucher (Birdy’s newsagent)
O’Roukes Fuel Voucher
Cassidy’s Fuel Station Ardee Road
Circle K (Cassidy’s Fuel Station Dundalk Road)
Matildas Bakery
Gifts and Things Voucher
Courthouse Voucher
Maguires Pharmacy Ladies Hamper
Hands Shoe Shop Voucher
Howells Voucher
T&L Paints Voucher
Dress Up Voucher
Uptown Girl Voucher
TW Menswear Voucher
Marron Electrical Voucher
All care Pharmacy Hamper (Men’s)
Connollys Pharmacy Hamper (Ladies)
McAllisters Voucher
Unique Hair Design Voucher
Lidl Voucher
Aldi Voucher
Cabra Castle Voucher
Asus Chromebook | Marron Electrical
EOS 4000 D Canon Camera | Marron Electrical
Samsung 50″ Smart TV | Marron Electrical
Samsung Galaxy Smart Watch | Marron Electrical
Eakins Pharmacy Hamper (Men’s)
The Hair Loft (Hairdressers)
Ella Rose Voucher
Nolans Butchers Voucher
December 21, 2020
Having initially gained certification of registration Quality Management Systems to ISO 9001:2008 in February 2016 (Crazy to think we covered this in a blog post almost 4 years ago – click to read) and being the first solar company to introduce standards in the market, Activ8 Solar Energies successfully completed the transition to ISO 9001:2015 in December of the same year. In the following years, Activ8 solely focued on the continual improvement of both the effectiveness and the efficiency of the Quality Management System. In early 2020, we started the process of building a new integrated management system, combining all three standards with one set of policies and procedures and providing us with the ability to bring all of our objectives into a unified system. In early November we completed our initial audit of the integrated system with NSAI (National Standards Association of Ireland), and we are absolutely delighted to announce that we have successfully achieved certification in all three international standards.
We are delighted to announce that having been the first solar company in Ireland to achieve certification ISO 9001 Quality Management standards in the solar market, we now have achieved certification in ISO 14001 (Environmental) and ISO 45001 (Occupational H&S). This is on top of record scores in Quality, Environmental and H&S in our annual Achilles Supply Line audit in 2020 also. This a huge achievement for our team in the most challenging year of them all! CEO Ciaran Marron would like to extend his thanks to all of the hard-working staff for their dedication and commitment to the management system. Although this type of certification is based around processes and policies, it is the attitude and dedication in delivering a high-quality service for our customers that really allows us to accomplish such achievements.
Raymond Clarke, QEHS Manager — “It’s a huge milestone for Activ8 and it is down to the sheer hard work and dedication of all the staff and management. It has been a massive year with achieving record scores with our Achilles external audit and now having three international standard certifications. In the most challenging year of them all, everbody has embraced change within the company, allowing us to focus on a safer workplace, happy customers and a greener environment”.
December 18, 2020
The SEAI Awards were announced live on YouTube last week, a true reflection of the times, given the usual standing the award ceremony holds for those of us in the renewable energy industry. It has become a very important date in the calendar for many, as we all work hard towards improving standards and increasing the number of projects focused on energy efficiency and sustainability here in Ireland. With the latest lockdown restrictions, there were many of us waiting on the announcements from locations all over Ireland, be it from our home or office!
With the announcements came cause for celebration for us here in Activ8 Solar Energies as we were involved with four finalists, three of them ultimately winning.
Firstly, Terra Spirits & Liqueurs, won the Small and Medium Business – Exemplary Energy Performance category. Having installed solar PV in 2018 for Terra, Shaun McKevitt was keen to build on this effort and completed that with a further expansion of their on-roof solar, amongst other measures, to 340kWp and are every bit deserving for their 2020 SEAI Energy Award.
Our partners, SSE Airtricity were also successful with SSE Airtricity Energy Services winning the Best Energy in Buildings category. A fantastic success by the team who we’re lucky to work with on a number of projects.
In a somewhat different category that makes this a wonderful project to be involved with, Dunleer Sustainable Energy Community won the Inspirational Energy Community Award. These guys are amazing in the passion they show as a community-based energy saving scheme in Co. Louth. Having worked with Elizabeth and Fergus McCann over the past 5 years, installing solar PV on a number of projects including the Birches centre, a project we like to highlight in particular as it helps some of the most vulnerable in our society and only goes to showcase the amazing work Dunleer SEC are getting across the line.
Finally, the efforts of Depuy Synthes – Johnson & Johnson saw them as finalists in the Energy Team/ Manager of the Year award, where they narrowly missed out. Having installed a 210kWp Solar PV system in the scenic location of Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork for Depuy Synthes in 2020, they are a true industry leader when it comes to the efforts they make in energy management and sustainability and it was a pleasure to work with a global leader on a solar project such as this one.
As we look forward to 2021 and the many wonderful projects already in the pipeline, we’re always striving to deliver the best in class project management and we want to work with the innovative companies and communities we have here in Ireland. If you have a project in mind, please reach out to either of our Project Manager, Martin Mulholland or our Commercial Manager, Gary Connolly.
martin.mulholland@activ8energies.com
gary.connolly@activ8energies.com
November 6, 2020
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With a wide range of solar projects ongoing in Activ8 Solar Energies, it’s great that we were able to switch topics. Having most recently presented on the topic of domestic solar, we were able to bring our learnings forward on the FarmGen project. An initiative we’ve collaborated on with Glanbia Ireland and SSE Airtricity to great effect. As Ireland’s solar experts, we were in a great position to help Glanbia Ireland bring a renewable offering to life for their agricultural customers. On top of this, the third arm of the partnership, SSE Airtricity offering preferential electricity rates, with the added bonus of said supply being 100% green energy*.
With installations in 2019 and further installations this year, we have learned a number of things on the FarmGen initiative as well as thankfully having numerous expectations confirmed in reality. Our Commercial Manager, Gary Connolly, presented on these findings on the second day of the ISEA Solar Conference 2020 from the comfort of our head office.
Firstly, he discussed the predictable, high usage periods of a dairy farm based around milking times. The morning milking is followed by a low midday demand on energy giving us an inverse usage curve versus the standard solar production curve. We have worked with farmers and the sizing of their systems accordingly. It is great that we can depend on the smart monitoring systems installed on-site to give us this feedback at a circuit level. By using this midday energy to heat the hot water cylinder on-site and have it ready for the evening milking, it maximises the use and efficiency of the system.
We have encountered farmers throughout this initiative who are keen to oversize their system without proper understanding of the usage curve against standard solar production patterns.
Rather than sizing the system for peak usage, there is a better optimal level towards which a system should be specified. Just as we do for all of our domestic and commercial solar PV clients, we always qualify and research their usage to better understand their need. This allows us to consistently size the system appropriately.
As you can see in the graph above, the optimal sized system brings more efficiency and ultimately, better value for the farmer.
Gary then discussed some minor issues with the funding side and recommendations we would make to help improve the scheme, from a solar perspective in particular.
If you wish to learn more about FarmGen, or have a project in mind that Solar PV may suit, then just get in touch.
October 9, 2020