Flogas has announced plans to deliver €50 million worth of solar energy projects over the next five years to large Irish businesses through its new Solar as a Service offering.
The energy supplier says the project will enable businesses to harness the power of rooftop and ground mounted Solar Photovoltaic panels on their premises without any capital investment, significantly reducing their energy bills and carbon footprints.
Flogas aims to install around 50 megawatts (MW) of solar PV capacity across approximately 100 large businesses. The move is expected to generate about 50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually -enough to power approximately 12,000 Irish homes each year.
This initiative is part of Flogas' parent company, DCC plc’s "Cleaner Energy in Your Power" strategy, which focuses on expanding its renewable energy business.
Flogas is partnering with Alternative Energy Ireland (AEI) and Wewise, both sister companies within the DCC group, to deliver what it calls a comprehensive solar solution for the Irish market.
AEI will manage the installation and ongoing management of the solar PV installations, ensuring they achieve 90% of their expected energy output annually, with the added benefit of real-time monitoring.
Wewise, will provide tailored financing arrangements, making on-site solar energy accessible to large businesses without upfront costs.
"This investment is central to Flogas’ strategy to lead in renewable energy and sustainability across Ireland", said Barry Murphy, Energy Services and Renewables Director, Flogas.
"It supports our vision of becoming a green energy leader by driving the adoption of Solar as a Service among large businesses, ultimately reducing carbon emissions and energy costs while contributing to Ireland’s climate goals."
The initiative is projected to significantly reduce Irish carbon emissions, with an estimated reduction of 11,000 tonnes annually.
"Solar as a Service offers numerous benefits, including zero upfront costs, significant energy savings, reduction in carbon footprints, a single monthly fee, and a service level agreement for the duration of any contract", said Steven Bray, Managing Director, Alternative Energy Ireland.
"This model enables businesses to leverage solar energy without the financial burden of purchasing and maintaining the technology."
The focus on large businesses aligns with the national goal of decarbonising the Irish commercial sector, crucial for meeting the overall reduction in emission targets for 2030 and 2050.
The solar energy market in Ireland is in its early stages of development. At the end of 2023, Ireland had 700 MW of solar PV installed capacity, with electricity generation from solar PV accounting for only 1.9% of Ireland’s electricity supply.
This service is particularly suitable for large energy users requiring systems of over 150 kW. Flogas says suitable roof or land space on site will be required and reviewed during detailed site survey phase in project.
