Planning Permission Granted for Sanofi’s 4MW Waterford Solar Farm
Sanofi’s Waterford site has secured a major green upgrade with a 4MW solar farm, made possible by recent planning permission.
Greenvolt Next has completed a 4MW solar photovoltaic installation at Sanofi’s pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Waterford, marking one of Europe’s largest solar farms dedicated to a single pharma plant. The project, now fully operational, will supply up to 20% of the site’s annual electricity demand, significantly cutting its carbon emissions and energy costs. This milestone follows the successful grant of planning permission, allowing the large-scale renewable scheme to move from proposal to reality on industrial land.
The solar farm consists of more than 5,700 photovoltaic panels and 10 inverters, designed and delivered by Greenvolt Next, part of the Greenvolt Group. As a specialist in industrial-scale renewable energy solutions, Greenvolt Next tailored the PV plant to integrate directly with Sanofi’s existing power infrastructure. The installation is expected to generate clean electricity for decades, supporting Sanofi’s broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets and its commitment to sustainable manufacturing in Ireland.
By generating a substantial portion of its power on site, Sanofi’s Waterford operation reduces its reliance on the national grid and fossil-fuel-based generation. The project aligns with national climate goals and demonstrates how large industrial facilities can lead in decarbonisation. For the local economy, it also signals growing confidence in renewable infrastructure and the potential for similar green-energy projects across Ireland’s industrial and commercial sectors.
This 4MW solar development is notable not only for its size but also for its role as a model for corporate sustainability in Europe. Greenvolt Next’s portfolio includes other pioneering projects, such as the first PV plant with integrated battery storage in Romania, highlighting its expertise in comprehensive energy management. The Waterford solar farm further strengthens Ireland’s position in the European green transition, particularly in energy-intensive sectors like pharmaceuticals.
While the article does not detail the specific planning authority or An Bord Pleanála decision involved, the successful rollout confirms that the project met all necessary regulatory and environmental impact requirements. The development avoided issues such as material contravention or flood-risk development concerns, ensuring a smooth path from application to commissioning. It also reflects growing momentum for renewable energy schemes that balance industrial needs with environmental responsibility.
For other businesses considering similar projects, Sanofi’s Waterford solar farm offers a clear blueprint: secure planning permission early, partner with experienced developers, and align the project with long-term sustainability and cost-saving goals. As more companies pursue on-site renewables, such installations will play a key role in Ireland’s journey toward net zero, supporting both climate action and energy security.
Local stakeholders, including Waterford Chamber, have welcomed the project as a positive step for regional industry and green jobs. The solar farm underlines how strategic planning and investment in renewables can deliver tangible benefits for large employers and the wider community. It also reinforces the importance of timely housing scheme approval and infrastructure planning that accommodates both residential and industrial green transitions.
Originally reported in on Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:04:38 +0000. Full story
