Planning Permission Powers Tayto’s Solar Breakthrough
Struggling with soaring energy costs? Tayto Snacks just unlocked a game-changing solar solution in Ashbourne, slashing emissions and bills overnight.
Activ8 Solar Energies finished installing a major rooftop solar array at Tayto Snacks’ production site in Ashbourne, Co Meath. This €1.17 million initiative stands as the company’s biggest renewable energy commitment yet. Planning permission enabled the project, which kicked off in December 2024 and saw onsite construction begin in March 2025. The setup now delivers roughly 10% of the facility’s yearly electricity demands.
The array features 1,734 ATLAS Duo N-Type bifacial panels, optimized for Ireland’s variable weather. It generates about 667 MWh annually, trimming carbon output by 146 tonnes of CO₂ each year. Tayto gains protection from volatile power prices and grid limitations through this on-site generation. Much like recent An Bord Pleanála decisions on sustainable builds, this move highlights smart energy shifts for manufacturers.
Ciaran Marron, Activ8’s chief executive, praised the partnership. He noted how established Irish firms are reshaping energy strategies with decisive sustainability steps. “On-site generation forms essential infrastructure now,” Marron stated, emphasizing resilience against carbon risks and costs.
Declan Meally from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) hailed the effort as a leader in business renewables. The project tapped SEAI’s Non-Domestic Microgeneration Grant for support, alongside SSE’s involvement. Meally urged more companies to replicate this model, boosting onsite solar uptake amid rising demands.
This development aligns with broader trends in Ireland’s commercial sector. Businesses eye rooftop solar to counter energy challenges, often secured via streamlined planning permission processes. Similar to environmental impact reviews for green projects, Tayto’s array proves viability without heavy grid reliance. It sets a benchmark for food producers facing flood-risk development concerns elsewhere.
Key project highlights include:
- Investment: €1.17 million, Tayto’s top renewables spend.
- Panels: 1,734 bifacial units for maximum Irish output.
- Annual generation: 667 MWh, covering 10% of site needs.
- Emissions savings: 146 tonnes CO₂ yearly.
- Support: SEAI grants and SSE partnership.
The fully commissioned system positions Tayto ahead in sustainable manufacturing. As Ireland advances renewable goals, such installations demonstrate practical paths forward. Planning permission played a pivotal role, mirroring approvals for housing scheme expansions and other eco-friendly ventures.
Manufacturers nationwide watch closely. With energy resilience key, Tayto’s blueprint could inspire wider adoption. Activ8’s expertise ensures panels thrive in local conditions, delivering reliable power.
Originally reported in LMFM on Thu, 12 Mar 2026 01:10:10 +0000. Full story
