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Lightsource Renewable Energy, Europe’s largest solar energy company, is seeking to provide advice and key tips to local farming enterprises, businesses and schools in Munster and elsewhere in Ireland, that may be considering solar projects.
Nick Boyle, Lightsource’s CEO announced that Lightsource will be making an investment of significant resource and expertise into Ireland for the development of solar power installations. The ease of deployment, scalability and safety of solar panels has seen this technology become the most popular electricity generator in many regions including the UK.
Mr Boyle said his company is 'excited by the opportunity for solar power in Ireland'. "Lightsource is committing significant financial investment and resource towards realising this opportunity. Any risks associated with the development of these solar projects, including installation costs, will be borne by Lightsource. This commitment will not only add to sustainable electricity generation in Ireland, it will also strengthen the local economy and supply chain.”
The CEO went on to say that the benefits from solar power are 'very immediate and tangible', explaining that armers and landowners can continue their agricultural activities by grazing small livestock around ground mounted panels.
"With rooftop installations, our customers have experienced over a 60% reduction in daytime electricity costs. We would like to share our knowledge and experience with local communities so they can make informed decisions when choosing to install solar.”
Mr Boyle stressed that this is 'a long-term partnership and that people need to be absolutely sure that they have made the right choice. Lightsource outlines some key advice to local farming enterprises, businesses and schools thinking about a solar installation:
• Establish the needs of your land or organisation first. A good developer will design the solar installation around your priorities;
• Always ask who is going to be managing and operating the solar project for its lifetime. You will want to work with a company that values long-term relationships;
• A good developer will be transparent on their planning process. How much emphasis do they put on community engagement? Being a good neighbour to the local community throughout the lifetime of the project should be high on the agenda;
• Choose a company that has a sizable in-house team. This will ensure your project progresses swiftly and can avoid unnecessary delays;
• Is the company well-funded? Ask them to demonstrate their track record in developing solar projects; and,
• Use a company that has a local office and local representation. They will have a greater understanding of legislation, the planning process and working with local communities.
RIGHT PARTNER
“As a recognised leader within the solar industry, we want to ensure this opportunity for Ireland delivers quality installations and home-grown energy assets that communities will be proud of. Choosing the right solar partner for your project will be the most important decision, and we want to ensure communities have the information they need to do so. We have always been focused on building long-term relationships as we are the lifetime operator of all our projects.”
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