Agrisolar has huge potential for Ireland’s renewable energy future – MEP Kelly

Sean Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of the Fine Gael Delegation in the European Parliament, has highlighted the agrisolar sector as a major opportunity that can benefit Irish agriculture and the country’s renewable energy future. Speaking ahead of European Commissioner Confirmation Hearings in November, Kelly, a member of the Parliament’s Energy Committee, has said that agrisolar could be a “win-win” for both Irish farmers and climate objectives.

“As an MEP, and someone from a farming background myself, I see huge potential in agrisolar for Ireland,” Kelly stated.

“It’s a solution that addresses two major challenges: securing sustainable food production and accelerating our transition to renewable energy.”

Agrisolar enables farmers to cultivate crops and generate solar power on the same land.

“By placing solar panels strategically above or between crops, agrisolar maximises land use,” he explained. “Farmers can continue to grow food while also harvesting energy, creating new revenue streams and boosting economic resilience in rural communities.”

Kelly underscored agrisolar’s role in advancing Ireland’s climate targets: “To meet our ambitious 90% climate target by 2040, we need innovative solutions like agrisolar”. “This approach doesn’t just reduce carbon emissions; it supports rural economies, strengthens our energy independence, and aligns with our sustainability goals.”

“Agrisolar also strengthens the relationship between agriculture and renewable energy,” Kelly added. “The panels offer partial shade, which helps to protect crops from extreme weather, reduce water evaporation, and create a more stable microclimate. This creates a productive environment where certain crops can flourish, while also providing space for livestock grazing and pollinator habitats, enhancing biodiversity.”

However, Kelly underlined that more needs to be done to make agrisolar accessible to farmers. “If we want to see agrisolar truly take off, we must ensure farmers have the tools and incentives they need”. “This includes simplifying grid connections, streamlining planning approvals, and developing payment schemes that make the transition worthwhile. We need clear policies and support systems in place to enable collaboration between agriculture and renewable energy.”

“Agrisolar is a mutually beneficial solution for Irish agriculture and renewable energy. By empowering farmers, we can boost rural economies, reduce our dependence on imported energy, and make meaningful strides towards Net Zero,” Kelly added.