Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The solar capital investment scheme under TAMS 3 is the main support provided by my Department for farmers wishing to invest in renewable energy. 

I launched this scheme in February 2023 and it is proving to be a hugely attractive scheme for farmers. It is closely aligned to our climate and sustainability needs through continued and enhanced support for renewable energy.  To help encourage on-farm renewable technology uptake and usage, grant aid is provided through TAMS to assist farmers in maximising their contribution to the production of renewable energy through the installation of solar PV technology, along with battery storage. The solar scheme is ring fenced with its own investment ceiling of €90,000, and will be grant aided at the enhanced rate of 60%. 

Applicants under TAMS 3 can receive the clean export guarantee payment for any electricity spill-over that may occur on a given day, as this is funded directly by the electricity companies. However, they are not eligible for any other payment, such as the clean export premium, as this would amount to double funding of the investment.

Adoption of sustainable energy practices at farm level, including energy efficiency, deployment of renewables and the provision of agricultural feedstocks for renewable energy generation, is a key climate pillar for the agriculture sector. The on-farm renewable energy generation activities of our farmers will contribute in a positive way to the decarbonisation of the energy system, providing a diversification opportunity for farmers who remain committed to playing their part in achieving our national climate change emission reduction goals. The energy sector falls under the remit of the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with which my Department is in regular contact, and we will continue to avail of their expertise for enhancements to TAMS 3.

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