Floating Solar PV in Ireland: Harnessing Clean Energy from Water Surfaces
As the global transition toward renewable energy accelerates, innovative solutions are emerging to overcome the limitations of land availability and optimise energy output. One such technology is floating solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which involve installing solar panels on bodies of water rather than land. In the Irish context, floating solar offers a compelling opportunity to generate clean, local energy without displacing agricultural or ecologically sensitive land.
Floating solar PV systems are particularly beneficial in areas with limited solar exposure and high population density. Ireland, with its growing energy demand and ambitious climate goals, is well-positioned to explore this technology. Floating systems offer several advantages: they reduce water evaporation, make use of underutilized reservoirs and lakes, and benefit from the cooling effect of water, which can improve solar panel efficiency.
Here are five promising locations across Ireland where floating solar PV systems could be suitably installed:
1. Poulaphouca Reservoir (Blessington Lakes), Co. Wicklow
Poulaphouca Reservoir is one of Ireland’s largest artificial lakes and supplies water to the Greater Dublin Area. With its vast surface area and proximity to urban centers, it represents an ideal site for floating solar. A system here could support grid demand and serve as a pilot project for large-scale deployment.
2. Lough Derg, bordering counties Clare, Tipperary, and Galway
Lough Derg is the third-largest lake in Ireland and has several zones suitable for development, especially near hydropower stations and grid connections. A floating solar system here could complement existing hydroelectric infrastructure, creating a hybrid renewable energy solution.
3. Vartry Reservoir, Co. Wicklow
Owned and operated by Irish Water, Vartry Reservoir is used primarily for drinking water supply. A carefully planned floating solar project could provide clean power directly to water treatment facilities, reducing operational costs and emissions for utility services.
4. Inniscarra Reservoir, Co. Cork
Inniscarra Reservoir is a man-made lake created by the River Lee dam and is home to a hydroelectric plant. This site presents an excellent opportunity for a hybrid hydro-solar power generation model. The reservoir’s energy-producing infrastructure could facilitate seamless integration with solar systems.
5. Shannon Callows (calm river areas of the River Shannon)
While flowing rivers pose technical challenges, calmer sections of the River Shannon known as “callows” or floodplains could be suitable for floating systems during dry seasons. Temporary or seasonal installations here could demonstrate flexibility and innovation in Ireland’s floating solar potential.
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Floating solar PV in Ireland offers a creative, low-impact method of expanding renewable energy generation. As water bodies remain underused in the energy sector, they represent a significant untapped resource. By strategically selecting sites such as Poulaphouca, Lough Derg, and others with existing infrastructure, Ireland can lead the way in sustainable energy innovation while preserving valuable land and biodiversity.
Investing in floating solar systems now will not only contribute to national renewable energy targets but also build a resilient energy system fit for the future.
Call Solar Now TODAY to discuss your planned floating solar project.
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