Solar energy generation reaches new record in June 2026

Solar energy generation on the Irish power system reached a record high in June 2026, contributing 8.2% to the overall electricity fuel mix.

According to provisional figures from transmission system operator EirGrid, this performance surpassed the previous record of 7.8% set in May 2026, as well as the 5.3% recorded in June 2025. Spells of fine weather on 6 and 16 June helped drive the increase, with grid-scale solar generation reaching a peak of 768 MW just before noon on Thursday, 19 June 2026.

Overall, renewable sources met 38% of Ireland's total electricity demand during the month. Wind energy provided 30% of this total, while solar power contributed 5% of the overall June electricity mix.

The generation milestones come alongside a rapid expansion of infrastructure. Ireland's total connected solar capacity reached 2.7 GW by the end of May 2026, representing an increase of nearly 300% since 2023. At a regional level, County Meath continues to lead utility-scale solar farm generation, producing 441 GWh of electricity over the 12-month period ending in May 2026.