Winds of Change

Hybrid energy solution hailed as blueprint for Ireland

In a pioneering move that could redefine Ireland’s renewable energy landscape, Liffey Meats has unveiled the country’s first co-located, behind-the-meter hybrid energy system, combining a 4.5MW solar farm with an existing 3MW wind turbine. Located at Cloggagh, Ballyjamesduff, the €3M project is being hailed as a blueprint for hybrid energy solutions across Ireland.

“This is the first time a project like this has been established in Ireland,” said Ciaran Marron, CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies, which helped deliver the system. “It’s a microcosm of a smart grid—a small-scale model of what can be done nationwide.”

The term “behind-the-meter” refers to energy generated and used directly on-site, reducing reliance on the national grid. In Liffey Meats’ case, the energy generated not only powers the factory’s operations and fleet but also feeds excess electricity back into the local grid, supplying homes and businesses in Ballyjamesduff.

The Liffey Meats Solar Farm consists of 6,440 solar PV panels, each capable of generating 700 watts, installed across nearly 18 acres of land. The system generates 2.29 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually – in conjunction with the wind turbine, enough to make the meat processing facility completely energy self-sufficient.

Combining the two power sources proved to be a challenge, but one that engineers were eager to overcome, explains Mr Marron. “This is a bespoke system developed over 14 months.”

Engineers from Activ8, ESB Networks and EirGrid completed multiple case studies to develop a hybrid technology that balances solar and wind inputs, ensuring a consistent and reliable energy flow regardless of weather conditions. They came up with a dynamic system that shifts energy flow coming from one source or the other. Tailored to ensure balance between wind and solar input, it is now being looked at as a template for national implementation. “This is a model that can be used across Ireland,” said Declan Meally, Director of Business, Public Sector and Transport of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). “We now know how to build a bespoke hybrid system that adapts to local conditions—whether that’s wind in Donegal or sun in Cork.”

He applauded the project as a clean, scalable example of what's possible with targeted investment and collaboration. “This is clean technology delivering a consistent power supply. It is a testament to the team’s ambition, their willingness to take risks, and to invest in new technology.”

According to Mr Meally, the project proves that small-scale smart grid technology can form the backbone of a more resilient local energy network.

“During the summer, the solar farm carries the bulk of the load, while in winter, the wind turbine steps in,” explained Nathan Galligan, Environmental and Sustainability Officer at Liffey Meats.

One quirky feature underscores the project’s sustainable ethos: 57 sheep graze under the solar panels, naturally maintaining the grass while cohabiting with the technology.

A massive diesel reduction

Already, the renewable energy supply has had an immediate and measurable impact. Since the beginning of 2024, the company estimates it has saved over one million litres of diesel through the installation of 20 electric vehicle (EV) charging points for the fleet of transport trucks. This marks a major step towards carbon neutrality in an industry often criticised for its environmental impact. “We're nearly carbon neutral on transportation now,” claimed Mr Galligan.

“It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about long-term climate goals. That’s the way forward.”

Feeding the town, strengthening the grid

With 500 employees on site and a large processing operation, energy reliability is critical. But the benefits are also being felt beyond the factory gates.

“We’re feeding energy back into the town, which increases resilience for everyone,” said Mr Galligan. Ireland’s agri-food sector is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions and embrace sustainability. “We want a sustainable product. That’s the way to go,” emphasised Mr Galligan from Liffey Meats.

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Niamh Smyth, called the solar farm “breathtaking” and commended the company’s ambition. “This is the biggest and most advanced renewable integration I’ve seen in Ireland’s agri-sector.” In a time of growing concern about climate change, fuel prices, and energy dependency, Liffey Meats’ hybrid energy system is not only a local business innovation – it is going to be a national case study for a more resilient energy infrastructure.