Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 December 2025
20. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the process in place for individual homeowners, businesses or farms who are producing excess energy, for example through solar panels, to be able to supply that energy into the grid; the extent to which it is being done; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67300/25]
View answerESB Networks data to end October 2025 indicates that approximately 162,550 domestic microgenerators have successfully registered with ESB Networks for an export grid connection. Of these, 151,211 have a smart meter installed which means they are eligible to receive the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) export tariff from their supplier for any excess renewable electricity they export to the grid.
Grid connections for up to 6 kW (single phase, usually domestic) and up to 11 kW (three phase, usually small farm or commercial settings) follow ESB Network’s simple and free of charge "Inform and Fit" process using the Microgeneration Installation Notification Form (NC6). This is normally completed and submitted by the registered Solar PV installer.
As of the end of October 2025, there has been 682 MW of micro-generation ( 50kW) capacity connected to the grid, along with an additional 120 MW of mini and small-scale (NC7/8, 50kW)) energised capacity.
This high level of demand indicates not only have citizens recognised the significant benefits of investing in Solar PV, but that the Solar PV industry and supply chain have adapted to the demands of our citizens and will support Ireland’s significant updated Climate Action Plan target of 1.6 GW of Microgeneration by 2030.
