Flogas has announced plans to invest €50 million in solar energy projects over the next five years, targeting large businesses in Ireland through its new Solar as a Service (SaaS) offering. This initiative enables companies to utilize rooftop and ground-mounted solar panels on their premises without any upfront capital investment, significantly lowering energy bills and carbon emissions.
The company aims to install approximately 50 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity across around 100 large enterprises, generating an estimated 50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually. This initiative aligns with Flogas' parent company DCC's “Cleaner Energy in Your Power” strategy, which focuses on expanding renewable energy offerings and reducing customer carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. It also supports DCC's commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices in line with the EU's Green Deal, which targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
To implement this comprehensive solar solution, Flogas is collaborating with sister companies Alternative Energy Ireland (AEI) and Wewise. AEI will oversee the installation and ongoing management of the solar projects, ensuring they achieve 90% of their expected energy output annually, along with real-time monitoring capabilities. Wewise will provide customized financing options, making on-site solar energy accessible to large businesses without initial costs.
Barry Murphy, Energy Services and Renewables Director at Flogas, stated, “This investment is central to Flogas' strategy to lead in renewable energy and sustainability across Ireland. It supports our vision of becoming a green energy leader by driving the adoption of Solar as a Service among large businesses, ultimately reducing carbon emissions and energy costs while contributing to Ireland's climate goals.”
Steven Bray, Managing Director of Alternative Energy Ireland, added, “Solar as a Service offers numerous benefits, including zero upfront costs, significant energy savings, reduction in carbon footprints, a single monthly fee, and a service level agreement for the duration of any contract. This model enables businesses to leverage solar energy without the financial burden of purchasing and maintaining the technology.”
The SaaS offering specifically targets large energy users requiring systems of over 150 kW. A detailed site survey will assess the suitability of roof or land space for the project. This focus on large businesses is in line with Ireland's national goal to decarbonize the commercial sector, essential for meeting emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2050.
