Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 June 2024
61. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way he is encouraging and supporting farmers to invest in solar photo voltaic systems on their farms; the quality control measures, if any, in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25742/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the previous CAP, grant aid was provided by my Department through TAMS II to assist farmers in maximising their contribution to the production of renewable energy. This was achieved through support for the installation of Solar PV technology, together with battery storage on Irish farms.
Due to the popularity and success of the TAMS II scheme, I am continuing support for renewable energy investments under TAMS 3, as part of the CAP Strategic Plan. This scheme is more aligned to our climate and sustainability needs in order to encourage on-farm renewable technology uptake and usage.
The standalone TAMS 3 Solar Capital Investment Scheme opened for applications in February 2023. This scheme provides grant aid of 60%, with a ring-fenced ceiling of €90,000. Solar PV systems grant-aided under TAMS 3 include Solar PV Panels and Solar PV Rechargeable Batteries.
All installations must comply with Specification S198 - Minimum Specification for the Installation of Solar PV Systems. The solar PV installer, who must be registered with my Department, is required to sign off on a testing and commissioning report that confirms that the system is ready for electricity generation in a safe manner, in line with the latest electrical standards applicable.
This, along with the provision of an ETCI certificate by a Safe Electric registered electrician, ensures that the work is completed to a high standard and complies with the National Rules for Electrical Installation. My Department checks both at TAMS application stage and at TAMS payment processing stage that the solar PV installer in question is on my Department’s Solar PV registered list.
I believe the Solar Capital Investment Scheme is the best mechanism for ensuring that funding is targeted most effectively at farm level to reduce dependence on fossil energy. I will also ensure that investment items and ceilings for grant aid continue to be reviewed on a regular basis.
