A new guide has been published which offers dairy farmers practical insights into cutting energy bills and lowering emissions through solar power.

“A Solar Energy Guide for Dairy Farms”, has been jointly developed by Teagasc and Munster Technological University, and was launched today at the Teagasc Dairy Open Day in Moorepark, Fermoy, County Cork.

Teagasc say the guide provides clear, evidence-based information on how to assess, install, and benefit from solar PV systems.

The guide outlines how farms with high energy use for milking, cooling milk and heating water are particularly suited to solar and presents real-world case studies and financial payback examples.

Info

The publication includes details on the 60% TAMS grant, export tariffs, and the new Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS).

It also highlights a free online tool, FaRMOT, developed by MTU and Teagasc, to help farmers optimise energy savings.

Speaking at the Moorepark25 Open Day, the lead author, Dr John Upton of Teagasc said; “This guide will help farmers make confident, informed decisions. Solar PV is no longer just a green option; it is a smart investment that supports farm resilience.”

Environment

Beyond financial savings, solar PV contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

For example, a 26 kWp system on a dairy farm can offset approximately 7.5 tonnes of CO2 annually, demonstrating the role of renewables in achieving climate targets.