Ireland’s largest rooftop solar installation underway in Cavan
Activ8 Solar Energies has commenced work on what will become Ireland’s largest rooftop solar installation for Mannok, marking a significant step forward in the decarbonisation of Irish industry.
Delivered through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SSE Airtricity, the 6MW solar project is now under development across 3.88 hectares of rooftop space at Mannok’s manufacturing facilities in Ballyconnell. Once completed and energised, the installation will comprise of approximately 10,000 solar panels and will provide a significant portion of Mannok’s overall electricity demand, while avoiding an estimated 792 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.
Spanning an area equivalent to almost three GAA pitches once complete, the project highlights the growing role of onsite renewable energy in helping Irish industry reduce emissions, manage energy costs and strengthen operational resilience.
Activ8 Energies CEO Ciaran Marron said the project marks a “major milestone” for both companies. The Monaghan man said the commencement demonstrates what can be achieved when businesses invest in renewable energy.
“By investing in this significant solar project, Mannok is taking a meaningful step towards reducing emissions, strengthening energy resilience and helping to drive transition to a lower-carbon future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mannok’s CEO Dara O’Reilly said sustainability is an “increasingly important part” of the business, and this project marks a “significant step” in that journey.
“Once complete, the installation will enable us to generate renewable electricity onsite, helping us to reduce our carbon footprint while enhancing the resilience of our manufacturing operations.
“Mannok’s 2030 Vision is our roadmap to decarbonisation and this project is another significant step in that direction.”
The project will enable Mannok to benefit from onsite renewable electricity generation without upfront capital investment. It also marks a significant milestone for Activ8, as the company celebrates 20 years in business this year.