What is Solar PV?

Solar Photovoltaics (PV) is a technology that converts daylight directly into electricity that can be used to power your business. These systems are composed of solar panels made up of many solar cells. When daylight hits these cells, it excites electrons, creating an electric current. This clean, renewable energy source can significantly reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and potentially lower your electricity bills.

How can TEA help?

Our experienced team of engineers will assess whether Solar PV is technically and financially feasible for your business. We evaluate your site conditions, energy profile, roof or ground‑mount potential, grid constraints, and commercial objectives. Based on this, we recommend the most effective next steps to maximise value and long‑term savings.

 

Benefits of Solar PV

Cost Savings

Solar PV systems generate clean, renewable electricity on site, reducing your reliance on grid power and lowering day to day energy costs.

Long-term Financial Stability

Solar PV provides a predictable, low cost energy source that protects your business from rising electricity prices and delivers a strong return on investment over time.

Environmental Sustainability

Solar energy is clean and renewable, reducing carbon emissions and a smaller ecological footprint. Businesses and communities can demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability goals.

Energy Independence & Security

Generating electricity on site reduces dependence on the grid, improves resilience during outages, and supports a more stable and secure energy supply.

Enhanced Brand Reputation

Investing in solar showcases your commitment to environmental responsibility, strengthening your brand and appealing to customers who value sustainability.

Government Incentives and Support

SEAI offers grants, tax incentives, and feed in tariffs to support solar adoption. These schemes make Solar PV even more cost effective for businesses across Ireland.

Why choose Tipperary Energy Agency?

25+ Years Delivering Ireland's Energy Transition  

Tipperary Energy Agency is a not-for-profit social enterprise founded in 1998. We have been at the forefront of energy efficiency and retrofit in Ireland ever since, working with local authorities, communities, businesses, and the public sector across the country.  

25+ Years of Experience

Over two decades supporting Ireland's transition to sustainable energy use.

25+ Years of Experience

Over two decades supporting Ireland's transition to sustainable energy use.

40+ European Projects

Successfully completed more than 40 national and EU research and demonstration projects

40+ European Projects

Successfully completed more than 40 national and EU research and demonstration projects

€1.4M Savings Delivered

Helped Tipperary County Council alone achieve over €1.4M in energy cost savings.

€1.4M Savings Delivered

Helped Tipperary County Council alone achieve over €1.4M in energy cost savings.

SEAI Registered Auditors

Our auditors are SEAI-registered Certified Energy Managers (CEMs), meeting all statutory requirements.

SEAI Registered Auditors

Our auditors are SEAI-registered Certified Energy Managers (CEMs), meeting all statutory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What financial supports are available for Solar PV?

The SEAI and the Government offer a range of grants and incentives to support Solar PV installations. Funding is available for eligible businesses through SEAI schemes, for farmers through the TAMS grant scheme, and for schools through the Schools Photovoltaic Programme. These supports can significantly reduce upfront capital costs and improve project payback periods.

We will assess your eligibility for available grants and provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

Do I need planning permission for Solar PV?

In most cases, no. Since October 2022, rooftop solar on industrial, commercial, agricultural, educational, healthcare, community and sports buildings are exempted development with no limit on the roof area covered, provided the conditions in the regulations are met. Those conditions include limits on how far panels project above the roof surface and minimum setbacks from the roof edge.

Planning permission is still likely to be required for:

  • Ground-mounted arrays above the exempted thresholds
  • Solar carports and other new structures
  • Protected structures and buildings within an Architectural Conservation Area
  • Sites within a Solar Safeguarding Zone, where rooftop installations are above 300 square metres

Where the position is not clear cut, a Section 5 declaration gives written confirmation from the local authority before works begin. We review planning status as part of every feasibility assessment.

Can Solar PV be combined with battery storage (BESS)?

Yes - pairing Solar PV with BESS allows your business to store excess solar energy and use it later to reduce peak demand or grid reliance. A PV + BESS integration study can determine the financial and technical benefits for your site.

Can Solar PV be installed over a carpark?

Yes. Solar carports mount the array on a canopy above existing parking spaces, which is a practical option where roof area is limited, shaded or structurally constrained. Carports cost more per kWp than rooftop systems and normally require planning permission, but they can be combined with EV charging and provide sheltered parking. We assess the technical and financial case for your site before you commit to a design.

Are there any lower interest loans available to me?

There may be green finance and energy-efficiency funding options available through banks and other finance providers for organisations investing in energy efficiency and building improvements.

TEA can help develop the technical and financial case for your project and identify potential funding and financing options.

Speak to an expert

Looking for the right solution for your facility? Contact us today to discuss your needs and see how we can support your goals.