French Independent Power Producer (IPP) Neoen announced the construction of the 79 MW Ballinknockane solar farm, the first utility-scale solar project in County Limerick, Ireland. Initially planned at 61 MW, the capacity was upgraded to 79 MW. The project secured support from Ireland’s RESS 2 auction in 2022 and is backed by a Contract for Difference (CfD) valid until 2040. It will connect to the transmission grid, with energization scheduled for mid-2026, and full commissioning expected in the first half of 2027. The solar farm is projected to supply power to 16,000 homes and cut CO2 emissions by about 21,000 tons annually. Neoen has committed €1.8 million ($1.9 million) to a community benefit fund. With this addition, Neoen’s total capacity in Ireland reaches 190 MW, including other solar and wind projects.