Driving Ireland’s Clean Energy Future – Solar Energy Now the Cheapest Power Source

Last Updated on 09/10/2025 by Green Crowd

Driving Ireland’s Clean Energy Future – Solar Energy Now the Cheapest Power Source

A new study has confirmed what many in the renewable sector already suspected: solar energy is now the most affordable form of electricity generation in the world, costing as little as €0.023 to produce one unit of power.

At Green Crowd, we welcome these findings as further validation of Ireland’s growing solar potential. With two solar projects currently open for investment, we see first-hand how the economics of solar energy are transforming the landscape for sustainable power generation.

The Rise of Solar: Ireland’s Moment to Shine

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Surrey, found that solar has surpassed wind, coal, and gas as the cheapest source of power – even in countries with moderate sunlight levels.

Here in Ireland, despite our temperate climate, solar technology has advanced to a point where it is cost-effective, reliable, and scalable. The reduction in the cost of lithium-ion batteries means that solar-plus-storage systems can now deliver energy when it’s needed most, making them comparable in reliability to traditional gas power plants.

Smarter, More Reliable Solar

The study highlights how hybrid solar systems, combining photovoltaic panels with modern battery storage, allow power to be stored during sunny periods and dispatched during peak demand.

“This is a fundamental shift,” says Paul Browne, CEO of Green Crowd, who has worked in the solar energy sector for over a decade. “We’re seeing a technology that was once considered intermittent become one of the most stable and cost-effective forms of clean power. At Green Crowd, we’re proud to play a role in this transition – and to offer Irish investors the chance to be part of that change through our two live solar projects.”

Overcoming the Challenges

However, the research also notes ongoing challenges – particularly the need to strengthen electricity grids and enhance regional interconnections as renewable capacity grows. Technologies such as smart grids, AI-based forecasting, and innovations in perovskite solar cells are expected to further improve efficiency and reduce land-use requirements, allowing solar power to be integrated more seamlessly into existing infrastructure.

Europe’s Solar Surge

Across Europe, the momentum is undeniable. According to Eurostat, renewable sources supplied 54% of the EU’s electricity between April and June 2025, with solar generation hitting record highs – producing over 122,000 GWh in the second quarter alone.

June 2025 marked the first month in history when solar became the primary source of electricity generation in the EU, accounting for 22% of the energy mix. This achievement underscores the technology’s scalability and the speed with which it can be deployed — a solar farm can be developed in as little as one year, compared to five years for wind or a decade for nuclear.

Ireland’s Path Forward

Ireland’s solar capacity is growing rapidly, supported by government policy, grid modernisation, and community participation. With the cost of generation now lower than ever, the opportunity for local investment in Irish solar projects has never been more compelling.

As Paul Browne concludes:

“Solar power is not just the cheapest option – it’s the smart choice for Ireland’s energy independence and environmental responsibility. With our current projects, we’re helping individuals to invest directly in that future with asset-backed investments which offer 50% EIIS Tax Relief for investors.”

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are seeking green investments or seeking to raise funds for green or renewable projects in Ireland, contact Green Crowd on 01 912 0345 or info@greencrowd.ie

You can register on our platform at www.greencrowd.ie to stay informed and up to date with the latest sustainable investments available through Green Crowd.