Ireland Launches Second Phase of Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme

The Irish government has announced the second phase of its Support for Small-Scale Renewable Electricity (SRESS) scheme, targeting community and local projects, renewable energy communities (REC), and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that generate and export solar or wind energy at a power level of up to 1 MW. This phase offers a guaranteed feed-in tariff without the need for an auction, providing a premium on market revenue for renewable electricity.

Government guidelines stipulate that REC prices are set at €150 ($162.70) per MWh for solar projects under 1 MW and €140 per MWh for projects between 1 MW and 6 MW. SMEs will receive €130 per MWh for solar projects under 1 MW and €120 per MWh for those between 1 MW and 6 MW. Wind projects benefit from even more advantageous rates under the new regime.

The higher tariff for RECs reflects the additional challenges these projects face, including planning, grid connection, and financing, and underscores the government’s preference for community involvement in renewable energy initiatives.

The Irish Solar Energy Association has praised the latest phase of the SRESS program, highlighting it as a significant opportunity for communities, local businesses, and SMEs to spearhead Ireland’s transition to renewable energy. Conall Bolger, the association’s chief executive, emphasized the critical need to improve grid connections for the seamless integration of small-scale generators.

“Grid connections are the lifeblood of renewable energy projects,” Bolger stated. “Without rapid and affordable access to our national energy grid, the potential of projects like the SRESS program remains untapped.”

The initial phase of the SRESS, launched in 2023, focused on self-consumers generating between 50 kW and 1 MW. A third phase, encompassing all categories of applicants, is scheduled for 2026.

Ireland has set an ambitious target to source 80% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, reflecting its commitment to a sustainable energy future.