Kildare solar farm begins powering 25,000 homes

ESB and BnM have officially opened Timahoe North solar farm in County Kildare.

The project is the first large-scale solar development delivered jointly by the two companies as part of their renewable energy portfolios.

The 108MWp solar farm has been exporting electricity to the national grid since earlier this year, providing enough energy to power around 25,000 homes. The project supports Ireland’s renewable energy targets for 2030 and the ongoing transition to clean, secure electricity.

Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, attended the launch and said the project was a significant step for solar power in Ireland. “This project makes a significant contribution to bringing more renewable electricity, in the form of solar, to communities across the country. For the Midlands region, it is another example of how this part of Ireland can help achieve our ambitious climate targets,” he said.

Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive, highlighted the farm’s role in supporting the company’s Net Zero targets. “Solar is an increasingly important part of Ireland’s energy mix. Timahoe North will deliver low carbon electricity for homes, farms and businesses for many years to come,” he said.

Tom Donnellan, CEO of BnM, described the launch as a milestone for the company and outlined plans for further solar development. The joint venture aims to deliver up to 500MW of solar capacity across the Midlands, complementing BnM’s operational renewable portfolio of 1GW.

A Community Benefit Fund has been established to support the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of the local area. The project was delivered in partnership with contractors including Voltalia, H&MV Engineering, S&G Solar Ltd. and Wills Bros Group.

The Timahoe North development is part of a broader co-development agreement between ESB and BnM to expand solar capacity on BnM lands, strengthening Ireland’s renewable energy infrastructure and supporting the nation’s low-carbon transition.

For more information, visit www.timahoenorthsolarfarm.ie.