Ep 6 - Solar Power on a Commercial Scale (building solar farms to supply electricity to the grid as opposed to domestic solar on the roofs of homes / businesses).
This week in our Powering Prosperity feature in association with Renewable Energy Ireland, John Morley spoke with JP O’Brien is Head of Solar Project Delivery for Statkraft Ireland. JP started building large commercial scale solar farms in the UK in 2011 and is currently building some of Ireland largest solar farms across the country.
The Topics covered in this episode
- What is a solar farm?
- How does the power generated get from the solar farm to customers?
- Why are solar farms being developed – are there any in Galway / the West ?
- What do you have to consider from an environmental perspective when building a solar farm?
- What additional benefits do solar farms bring, specifically when it comes to biodiversity?
- Are there opportunities for farmers and people in agriculture to get involved in solar ?
- When you propose a solar farm, what do you find communities think about solar projects?
- What is the local economic benefit? Will local people be employed?
Additional reading material
https://www.irishsolarenergy.org/
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/rural-development/diversification/solar
Each Thursday on Galway Talks, "Powering Prosperity with Renewable Energy Ireland" shines a spotlight on the future of clean energy.
Host John Morley talks with industry experts and academics on the essential developments of Ireland’s indigenous, carbon-free energy sources. From wind and solar to breakthrough innovations, the conversation highlights how these technologies are not only reducing emissions but also driving economic growth and job creation.
As the nation embraces a more sustainable future, this weekly feature continues to inspire listeners with real stories shaping Ireland’s energy transformation.
About Renewable Energy Ireland
Renewable Energy Ireland was established in January 2019 as an open partnership of sustainable energy associations working collectively to support the energy transition in Ireland.
Their shared vision is that by 2050 Ireland will be energy independent through using indigenous, clean, carbon-free renewable energy supported by, and supporting, communities across our country.
Ep 6 - Solar Power on a Commercial Scale
