Ireland Launches Fixed Electricity Pricing Plan For Small Solar Projects

The Irish government has announced the second phase of its Small-scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS). The latest phase targets community and local projects, or Renewable energy communities (RECs). In addition to export-only projects under 1 MW, it also targets small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) that produce their own solar or wind power.

The scheme provides guaranteed feed-in tariffs without the need for auctions. Government guidelines state that successful applicants will receive a premium on their renewable electricity market income.

Electricity prices for renewable energy certificates have been set at 150 euros ($162.70) per megawatt-hour for solar projects up to 1 MW and 140 euros per megawatt-hour for projects between 1 MW and 6 MW. For smes, the electricity price for solar projects up to 1 MW is 130 euros/MWH and 120 euros/MWH for projects between 1 MW and 6 MW. The scheme sets cheaper electricity prices for wind projects.

According to government guidance, electricity prices for renewable energy certificates are higher because such projects face additional hurdles in developing planning, grid connectivity and financing, and also reflect public policy preferences for community participation in renewable energy projects.

The Irish Solar Energy Association welcomed the latest phase of the scheme, saying it "presents a significant opportunity for communities, local businesses and smes to drive Ireland's transition to renewable energy".

The first phase of the Irish SRESS will be launched in 2023 for self-use of more than 50 kW and less than 1 MW. The third phase is expected to support all applicant categories and is currently scheduled to start in 2026.

The Irish government has set a target that 80% of its energy market will come from renewables by 2030.