Who are we talking to, is it a logical journey to what you do now?

I'm Ronan Power, CEO of Solar Ireland, the national association for the Irish solar industry. I've spent most of my career in the energy space, and now leading Solar Ireland at a time of such rapid change is both a privilege and a responsibility. The transition from ISEA to Solar Ireland reflects the maturing of our industry - from advocacy to full-scale delivery.

Ireland's fastest-growing renewable, Ronan Power, Solar Ireland

It looks like solar installations have gradually grown and evolved in Ireland - would this be a fair description of the Irish solar ecosystem?

Yes - though "gradually" might now be an understatement. In just two years, installed solar capacity in Ireland has more than doubled. What was once considered an emerging technology is now one of Ireland's fastest-growing energy sources, and this growth is happening across the board - from rooftops to utility-scale solar farms. Ireland's solar ecosystem is evolving from pilot projects and early adopters to mainstream energy infrastructure.

Does Ireland get as much / more / less solar than other countries in Europe?

Ireland might get less sun than southern Europe, but we see similar levels to parts of Germany, which has long led the way in solar deployment. Thanks to technological advances, solar works exceptionally well here. In fact, with the right policy and planning, Ireland can become a solar leader in its own right.

How much energy does a typical three-bed house need, and therefore how many panels, batteries and kit would they need?

With the wider shift to electrification as part of Ireland's Net Zero strategy, it's becoming harder to define a 'typical' usage as it varies with heating systems, EV charging, and more. What matters most is that solar offers households energy independence, bill stability, and climate impact, all in one. As an industry body, our role is to ensure the right policy frameworks are in place so homeowners can access grants, accurate information, and a thriving network of qualified professionals. Over 130,000 Irish homes have now installed solar - a clear vote of confidence.

What are the approximate costs for this, and the payback period?

It's difficult to give an average cost for solar, as installations can vary significantly depending on the home and system size. That said, homeowners can benefit from a €1,800 SEAI grant, and the 0% VAT rate introduced in 2023 for domestic solar helps reduce the upfront expense. Again, the key point is that solar offers greater energy independence, long-term savings over the panels' 25+ year lifespan, and a meaningful way to cut carbon emissions.

Have these costs come down as solar panel technology has improved?

Absolutely. Panel efficiency has improved, manufacturing costs have dropped, and installation processes are safer and more streamlined than ever. This is no longer an emerging technology; it's a smart investment, both economically and environmentally.

What tips would you give to people thinking of installing solar?

Choose a certified installer, think about your energy usage today and in the future, and ask questions. Solar is a long-term asset, so quality matters. With smart meters in place, you'll also benefit from any excess electricity your system sends back to the grid.

What might the future look like in Ireland in terms of people going off the grid?

Full off-grid living will remain niche, but energy independence is growing. Batteries, smart meters, and energy-sharing models will let more households manage their own supply and contribute to the grid. The future is about integration, not isolation.

Are we still a long way off homes selling energy back to the grid?

We've already crossed that threshold. Households can now receive payment for exported solar power. What's coming next is even more exciting - energy sharing between homes, community-led generation, and smarter, more responsive grid participation, all enabled by...