Irish Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien has inaugurated the 108MWp Timahoe North solar farm in County Kildare (pictured), the first project delivered under ESB and BnM’s solar co-development agreement.
The site, which has been operational since early 2025, can supply enough renewable electricity to power around 25,000 homes.
ESB and BnM said the joint venture will ultimately deliver up to 500MW of solar capacity across the Midlands in support of Ireland’s 2030 renewable energy targets.
O’Brien said: “This project makes a significant contribution to the agreement between both organisations to bring more renewable electricity, in the form of solar, to communities right across the country.
“For the Midlands region, it is yet another example of how this part of the country can support Ireland as a whole to achieve its ambitious climate targets.”
ESB chief executive Paddy Hayes said: “Solar is an increasingly important part of Ireland’s energy mix and this successful investment at Timahoe North will deliver low carbon electricity for homes, farms and businesses for many years to come.”
BnM chief executive Tom Donnellan added: “The launch of Timahoe North marks an important milestone for BnM, as we continue to support Ireland’s renewable energy future by developing our 5GW pipeline of sustainable energy systems, including onshore and offshore wind, solar, biomass and biogas projects.”
The project was delivered with contractors including Voltalia, H&MV Engineering, S&G Solar and Wills Bros Group.
A community benefit fund has been established to support economic, social, environmental and cultural projects in the local area.