As it stands, Ireland’s adoption of renewable technologies at farm level is well below the European average. Ireland recently ranked 23rd out of the EU-27 countries for renewable energy from agriculture, producing just 2.6% compared with the EU-27 average of 12.1%. There is enormous potential for Irish agriculture and the energy industries to develop key relationships for the benefit of all stakeholders, especially in the areas of solar and AD.

Effective communication and collaboration between both sectors is essential to addressing community and landowners concerns. A transparent dialogue that considers the unique needs and priorities of the community and landowners can lead to mutually beneficial solutions that balance renewable energy goals with the preservation of agricultural practices and community values.