Solar Grant for Irish Farms

Updated March 30, 2023

Irish farms are now eligible for solar grants under the TAMS 3 Solar Capital Investment Scheme.

Find out how your farm can switch to solar!

What is TAMS 3?

TAMS 3 is a government initiative to provide grants to eligible farmers to help improve their farm efficiency and productivity.

The Grant covers improvements on:

Animal dwellings
Land management
Animal health and wellness equipment
Animal waste management
Energy efficiency and generation

What is the Solar Capital Investment Scheme?

Under TAMS 3 is the Solar Capital Investment Scheme aimed at encouraging farms to create self-sustaining renewable energy and help lower their electricity costs, dedicated specifically to solar investments on your farm. Essentially, it was set up to help cover some of the costs of installing solar panels. If approved, the Grant provides:

60% of the solar installation costs, with a maximum ceiling of €90,000 per farm

How Much Grant Funding is available?

The solar scheme is ring fenced with its own investment ceiling of €90,000 and will be grant aided at the enhanced rate of 60%. This means that the TAMS 3 scheme will cover up to 60% of your expenses, with a maximum grant per farm holding of €90,000. The minimum amount of investment which is eligible for approval under this Scheme is €2,000 per application.

What Equipment Will I Need To Buy?

The 2 main items which you will be installing on your farm are

Solar Panels – which can capture the energy from the sun
Batteries – that can store the energy until such time as your farm needs it

Who Qualifies for this Scheme?

Any farmer, regardless of how much electricity they consume can qualify for the scheme. Once you have submitted your application to the Department, it will be assessed in accordance with the following criteria:

Age of applicant (priority will be given to younger farmers);
Size of the holding/enterprise;
If any part of a holding is in an Area of Natural Constraint;
Payment under TAMS II Dairy Equipment Scheme, Tillage Capital Investment Scheme, Young Farmer Capital Investment Scheme, Organic Capital Investment Scheme, Pig and Poultry
Investment Scheme, Animal Welfare, Safety and Nutrient Storage Scheme.
Nitrates Production Prior to Export.

Where Should I Install My Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be installed on the roof of farm buildings, or on the ground if there is available space. Your SolarSmart Solar Advisor will review your farm and make recommendations on the most suitable place for the panels to be installed.

The solar panels may not be installed on residential land such as the farm dwelling or garden, they must be installed on the farm itself.

Do I Need Planning Permission To Install Solar Panels?

Generally speaking, no. There are certain circumstances where planning permission may be required but for most applicants it is not necessary. You will however need to get a planning exemption. Your SolarSmart advisor can guide you on this process.

Can I use the Energy Generated to Power My House As Well?

Yes. 100% of the electricity generated from the panels must be consumed on the applicant’s holding which includes the dwelling house on the holding for farming purposes.

This All Sounds Great, How Do I Apply?

A team of SolarSmart advisors are standing by to discuss your needs and point you in the right direction. We will help you with the application process and ensure that your application has the best possible chance of being approved for the scheme.