Neoen has launched construction of the 162MWp Garr Solar Farm and 33MWp Johnstown North Solar Farm in Ireland after issuing notices to proceed.
The company said the projects were awarded contracts under the RESS 4 auction in 2024 and contractors Omexom and TLI Group will deliver the solar arrays, substations and grid connections.
It added that Garr Solar Farm in County Offaly is expected to be operational in 2029, while Johnstown North in County Wicklow is scheduled for 2028.
Neoen noted the two projects will nearly double its capacity in Ireland to 410MW of wind and solar in operation or under construction.
The company said Garr Solar Farm will generate enough electricity to power over 38,000 homes and avoid more than 51,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, while Johnstown North will power 8,000 homes and avoid over 10,500 tonnes of emissions.
“Garr and Johnstown North solar farms represent major milestones for Neoen’s investment in Ireland’s energy future, and we would like to sincerely thank the Irish government, EirGrid and ESBN for placing their trust in us,” said Ciaran O’Brien, managing director of Neoen Ireland.
“These projects demonstrate our strong partnerships and growth under Ireland’s RESS framework, and they will deliver tangible benefits to the Offaly and Wicklow communities.”
“I would like to congratulate Neoen Ireland team on this impressive achievement which bears testimony to the quality of their work and to the strength of our portfolio,” said Xavier Barbaro, group ceo of Neoen.
“With demand for electricity growing in Ireland, we are proud to be contributing a further 195 MWp of solar capacity, and to play our part in relieving pressure on power prices in the long run.”