Neoen launches construction of two new solar farms in Ireland

Neoen has issued notices to proceed for its 162 MWp Garr Solar Farm and 33 MWp Johnstown North Solar Farm, appointing Omexom to deliver the solar arrays and related infrastructure, and TLI Group to handle the onsite substation and grid connection works. This marks the formal commencement of the construction phase, with site activities expected to begin in the coming months. Both projects secured contracts under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS 4) auction held in 2024.

Garr Solar Farm is Neoen’s first project in County Offaly and will be one of Ireland’s largest solar farms. It will generate enough energy to power over 38,000 homes and prevent over 51,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. The asset, which will connect to the transmission network operated by EirGrid, is scheduled to be operational in 2029.

Johnstown North is Neoen’s third solar farm in County Wicklow. It is expected to generate enough electricity to power 8,000 homes and prevent over 10,500 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. The solar farm will connect to the distribution network operated by ESBN and is scheduled to be operational in 2028.

Neoen plans to establish Community Benefit Funds for both projects while adopting sustainable land management practices, such as using sheep grazing to control vegetation. The developments will also support biodiversity through measures like native tree planting and the installation of bird and bat boxes, along with insect habitats. With these additions, Neoen’s total capacity in Ireland reaches around 410 MW, either operational or under construction. Its existing portfolio in the country includes three operational solar farms with a combined capacity of 58 MWp, two more solar projects totaling 104 MWp currently being built under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS 2), and eight operational wind farms with a total capacity of 53 MW.