Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

AI-Powered PCs: Transforming How We Work, Create, and Innovate

Over the decades, personal computers have evolved from simple work tools into indispensable companions that shape how we live and work. Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead at Dell Technologies Ireland tells us more.

But now we’re on a cusp of game-changing revolution with Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforming the PC and other devices we use on a daily basis. We are entering a new era in workplace technology, with AI redefining productivity, efficiency, and sustainability for Irish businesses.

Rise of AI-powered PCs

As organisations in Ireland navigate an increasingly data-driven world, the demand for faster and more secure workflows is growing. AI PCs step up to this challenge by integrating powerful on-device AI capabilities that reduce reliance on the cloud.

At its core, AI PCs are accelerated desktops, laptops, and workstations capable of running AI-optimised apps locally on device.

By processing data locally with embedded accelerators like Neural Processing Unites (NPUs), these devices offer a more responsive user experiences and a seamless approach to manage workloads all while ensuring improved security and energy efficiency. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also opens new opportunities for AI development, deployment, and fine-tuning directly at the user’s fingertips.

These next-generation devices are more than just an upgrade. They represent a fundamental shift in workplace technology, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern enterprises.

Leveraging decades of innovation in purpose-built accelerators, such as NPUs and GPUs, our latest AI PCs at Dell Technologies help to unlock the power of AI for the end user. With devices like the Dell Pro Max PC can handle up to 30 billion-parameter AI models, equipping Irish enterprises to tackle complex challenges effortlessly.

AI PCs are designed to empower users with unparalleled productivity capabilities. By leveraging on-device AI, these PCs streamline workflows and enable employees to handle complex tasks with ease. Features like intelligent automation and predictive analytics reduce time spent on repetitive processes allowing user to focus on higher-value work.

Sustainability and Innovation

Beyond performance, efficiency, and sustainability what remains a key priority for businesses across Ireland is to align themselves and support Ireland’s environmental commitments while allowing their business to integrate eco-friendly practices without compromising on technological advancement. AI PCs contribute to these goals by optimising energy usage and reducing overall carbon footprints.

At CES 2025, Dell Technologies unveiled its latest AI PC portfolio, showcasing a range of devices built to support diverse business requirements. Devices in the Dell Pro portfolio, features low emissions aluminium and a modular USB-C Port to minimise carbon footprint.

Dell is all-in on the AI PC experience and we’re aligning this innovation with the broader vision to lead the industry and offer the most comprehensive AI portfolio spanning from desktop to data centre to cloud, all under one roof.

At a recent event, we brought our AI-enabled PCs and tools directly to Irish customers, developers, and IT administrators, providing hands-on experience of our products designed to build and deploy AI applications seamlessly. By streamlining AI capabilities into everyday workflows, these devices empower users to work smarter and drive real business value.

Our collaboration with industry leaders such as NVIDIA has resulted in innovations like the Dell AI Factory, an end-to-end solution combining cutting-edge hardware and software to deliver unmatched AI performance. Meanwhile, the Dell Data Lakehouse simplifies data management and accelerates insights by up to 90%, allowing businesses to make smarter decisions faster.

Benefits of Adopting AI PCs

In 2025, Irish businesses will embrace AI-powered PCs as essential tools for boosting productivity and redefining the future of work. These advanced devices, equipped with embedded AI, will streamline daily tasks such as drafting follow-ups, organising to-do lists, and summarising emails before the workday even starts.

With AI capabilities soon becoming a standard expectation in PCs, the benefits are clear:

  • Enhanced productivity: Future workloads are increasingly going to be AI-driven, making AI PCs indispensable for tackling complex data challenges. People working with AI PCs will have an edge of fast and more responsive performance, leaving those on outdated devices unable to harness the benefits.
  • PC refresh opportunity:  With over 1.5 billion units in the global commercially installed based and nearly 30pc of them being four years old or more, now is the perfect time to upgrade to AI PCs. Older PCs lack NPUs making them obsolete to handle AI workloads.

With the Windows upgrade cycle ending in October 2025 where hardware requirements may exceed the capabilities of older devices, businesses have a strategic opportunity to embrace smarter, more sustainable technology.

With a wave of PC upgrades anticipated this year, nearly every device will feature an AI accelerator or NPU, enabling seamless execution of AI-driven apps and workloads. For companies still relying on outdated hardware, upgrading to smarter technology will be pivotal to staying competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape.

The Road Ahead: Embracing AI-powered future

As AI continues to demand greater data processing capabilities, Irish business have opportunity to embrace and innovate. The shift to AI PCs represents as significant advancement in enhancing their workforce productivity and addressing complex data challenges with ease.

This integration of AI into everyday devices is only the beginning. As technology evolves AI PCs will deliver even more intuitive and adaptive computing experiences, ranging from smarter workflows to enhanced collaboration tools.

For businesses here in Ireland, adopting these AI powered devices is far more than a routine tech upgrade, it’s a forward-thinking strategy that aligns innovation, sustainability and competitiveness. By investing in these transformative devices, businesses can unlock the power to drive their success and redefine the future of work.

First Look – Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G

The Redmi Note is a recently released device now on sale in Ireland in multiple stores and online and we have just got this in to check out over the next few weeks and look forward to seeing how it fairs out in the market.

With a good spec sheet this device promises to offer great features at a decent price and of course AI is one of the themes here as is with most smartphone makers now which has become jarring for some but each manufacturers take is different and you also get Google Gemini on board which most Android users are now more custom too.

With Redmi Note 14 Series, Xiaomi delivers a remarkable blend of powerful  performance, stunning photography, and robust durability, all designed to meet the  needs of modern life. From the high-resolution camera systems with advanced AI tools,  to the rugged dust and water-resistant design, powerful performance and long-lasting  battery, Redmi Note 14 Series sets a new standard in its category by bringing premium  features to a wider audience, offering exceptional value in every aspect.

We will be testing this out over the coming weeks so if there is any questions as always ask us on social or our YouTube

 

Features

Camera 200MP main camera
Chipset MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra
Carrier Unlocked for All Carriers
OS Xiaomi HyperOS based on Android
Cellular technology 5G
Storage & RAM 8GB + 256GB
Connectivity technologies Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Screen size 6.67 Inches
Battery 5110mAh (typ)
Charging 45W turbo charging

Buy 

Unboxing and first look

Fraudsters try to make every day April Fool’s Day

This April 1st, Bank of Ireland is warning customers that fraudsters don’t just try to fool you for one day, they are always active and financial fraud can lead to devastating loss of income and savings. The Bank is reminding customers about the top ten fraud types currently reported to its 24/7 fraud team.

According to Bank of Ireland’s fraud reporting data, the most concerning fraud type being used to target customers is investment scams, with smishing texts and vishing calls following closely behind. Further down the list, yet becoming more prevalent, are malware attacks where fraudsters gain access to customers’ devices and access private information, including their banking app.

The 10 most commonly reported frauds are:

  1. Investment scams – promising higher returns on investments that don’t exist.
  2. Smishing texts – scam texts claiming to be from delivery companies and other providers urging you to pay outstanding charges or update account details.
  3. Vishing calls – fraudsters pretend to be from your bank, saying your account has been compromised and they need to move your money to a ‘safe account’.
  4. Purchase scams – fake adverts on genuine websites and social media platforms that promise a slashed price or bargain.
  5. Romance scams – fraudsters build relationships online to manipulate victims into sending them money.
  6. Family impersonation – fake messages pretending to be from a family member who has lost their phone and needs access to money.
  7. Rental and holiday scams – fraudsters trick people into paying rent for property that doesn’t exist or is not actually available to rent.
  8. Money mules – criminals try to recruit people into receiving stolen money into their account, then transfer it to another account and keep some of the cash for themselves as ‘payment’.
  9. Malware – harmful apps that ask for full control of your device allowing fraudsters to control your phone and access private information like your banking app.
  10. Phishing emails – fraudsters send emails that look like they’re from legitimate companies, asking for personal information or login credentials.

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Fraudsters don’t just try to fool you for one day, they never take a break and are always on. Our latest fraud reporting data shows that investment fraud is still the most concerning scam targeting our customers. The level of highly personalised targeting, with fraudsters promising higher returns on bogus schemes, continues to grow. Smishing texts and vishing attempts continue on a persistent basis. Fraudulent advertisements online and on social media have been the subject of regular warnings for some time and the trend is not going away. And some new types of fraud including accessing devices using malware are happening more often.

“All fraud types are serious criminal activity and there is no room for complacency. Being alert to the ‘red flags’ – including ‘too good to be true’ returns and pressure to act quickly – is vital.

“Bank of Ireland offers a 24/7 fraud telephone support for customers on 1800 946 764, available every day of the year. We encourage our customers to put this number in their phone, so they have easy access to it if they ever need it.”

For detailed advice and information on how to stay safe from all types of financial fraud, visit the Security Zone on Bank of Ireland’s website.

Red flags of Investment Fraud:

  • Follow-up calls: You receive a call having clicked an investment product advert on social media or in a sponsored search result.
  • Higher/fast returns: They promise a quick and profitable return, with little or no risk.
  • Pressure: They advise you must act quickly to take advantage of an “opportunity of a lifetime”.
  • Celebrity Endorsements: Be wary where the investment is being endorsed by celebrities – they may not know their name is attached to the advertisement.
  • Secrecy: They say you’re not to discuss the “investment” with family, friends or your bank and they may instruct you to sign a “non-disclosure agreement” (NDA).

Remember, Bank of Ireland will never:

  • Send you a text or email with a link directly to the login page of our online banking channels asking you to confirm or update your banking details
  • Ask you to click a link in a message with an urgent warning about suspicious activity on your account
  • Ask you to transfer money out of your account to protect you from fraud
  • Ask you to send us back your bank card.

 

Don’t ever share:

  • Your full six-digit 365 PIN or Business On Line credentials
  • Any one-time activation codes or codes from your Business On Line Approve app
  • Your four-digit card PIN.

Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can try to stop the fraud and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.

SCÁLA Can Accelerate Your Business Growth.

SCÁLA, the accelerator programme from Local Enterprise Office Donegal, is now open for applications. Scála is targeted at high-potential start-ups and business expansions in the county. 

This exciting programme is unique to Donegal and is built by investors for entrepreneurs. Applications are open for entrepreneurs and senior managers of businesses with the potential to scale their business from Donegal. 

SCÁLA Donegal will target start-up entrepreneurs with the potential for fast growth in a range of sectors such as Tech, Engineering, Blue Economy and Health Sciences. See https://www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal/Training-Events/Scala/

SCÁLA has a particular focus on businesses with the potential for fast growth in sectors such as Tech, Engineering, Manufacturing, Health Sciences and the Blue Economy. This programme also encourages potential spin-outs from existing firms in the county and region, while introducing participants to potential investment funds.

Speaking about the SCÁLA Accelerator, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy said: ‘’Over the past few years we have seen a number of very positive business expansion plans in Donegal across a range of industries. This programme provides an opportunity for further organic growth in these and other high-performing sectors.’’

 

Jon Geary of Little Mamma’s Gelato, who is a recent past participant of SCÁLA, pictured with co-founder Linda Geary. 

Jon Geary of Little Mamma’s Gelato, who is a recent participant in the programme, said: “SCÁLA provided me with the confidence to grow my business, by helping me to identify a market fit product, build a team and assist in finding relevant funding. The connections made and the expertise gained through this programme were crucial for us as we work towards scaling our business.”

Local Enterprise Office Donegal is collaborating with Skillfluence to implement the programme. Skillfluence provides bespoke training programmes designed to accelerate the needs of entrepreneurs and empower them to translate research into commercial opportunities.

Jamie McCallum of Skillfluence who is running the SCÁLA programme for Local Enterprise Office Donegal

Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office, Donegal, said: “SCÁLA focuses on giving participants a deep understanding of the factors that can drive success, along with the skills to build financial models that stand up to investor scrutiny and industry engagement. The programme will also provide mentorship from leaders in their field, so participants will get valuable insights and advice on ways to adapt their business model as necessary. We will select up to twelve businesses based on the scale of ambition of the founder(s), the potential opportunity in the market chosen, and, most importantly, the businesses we believe can be supported  the most through the SCALA programme. We would encourage potential candidates to apply now and give yourself the best possible chance to be accepted.”

Brenda Hegarty, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Donegal.  

The deadline for applying to this programme is midnight Friday, 11th April 2025. Following this, up to 12 businesses will be selected for the accelerator, which commences on April 30th, 2025 and will run for 11 weeks, concluding on July 16th, 2025. For more information on the programme and how to apply, visit: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Donegal/Training-Events/Scala/ 

Why Your Business Needs a Document Management System Today

In the modern business landscape, staying organized and efficient is crucial for success. As companies continue to grow and generate more documents, keeping track of everything manually becomes an impossible task. Here’s where a document management system comes in. A DMS helps you store, manage and retrieve documents fast and secure, increase productivity and overall efficiency. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, a document management can change your workflow, reduce costs and increase efficiency.

This article will talk about the top reasons why you need a document management today.

1. Efficiency and Productivity

One of the main reasons to get document management software is the big efficiency and productivity boost. In a traditional paper-based system, employees waste time searching for documents, organising files and managing physical storage space. With digital document management, documents are stored electronically so you can retrieve them faster.

Cloud document management takes it to the next level by allowing employees to access documents from anywhere, at any time. This remote access is gold for businesses with teams working in different locations or remotely. No more wasting time looking for files or waiting for documents to be mailed. A document management system for small business can streamline your operations and free up time to focus on what matters most to your operations. A document management system for small business can streamline operations and free up valuable time to focus on core business activities.

2. Enhanced Security and Compliance

A document management system significantly enhances the security of your business’s documents. With an electronic document management system, files are stored in a secure, encrypted environment, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, theft, or loss of sensitive data. Advanced access control features ensure that only authorized personnel can view, edit, or delete documents.

For industries that handle sensitive or regulated information, like law firms, a document management system is a must. Compliance with regulations like HIPAA, GDPR and other industry standards becomes much easier when documents are stored securely and can be tracked for auditing purposes. A contract document management system means contracts are protected and compliant with legal requirements.

3. Streamlined Collaboration and Remote Access

A document management system makes team collaboration better. A cloud document management system means employees can access the same document at once, making real-time edits and sharing files with colleagues and clients without the need for meetings or emails. This collaborative environment boosts team work and accelerates decision making.

For businesses with remote teams operating across multiple locations, an online document management system is a game changer. Employees in different offices or even at home can collaborate on the same document without geographical boundaries. This means no one is left out of the loop and collaboration is smoother and faster.

4. Cost Savings and Space Efficiency

Traditional document management systems require a lot of physical space for files, binders and cabinets. Not only does this take up valuable office space but it also costs to file and store. By moving to an electronic document management system you can eliminate the need for physical storage and save big time.

A digital document management system also saves you on printing and paper costs. Since documents are stored electronically, there’s less need to print and duplicate physical copies. This reduction in paper usage saves you money and is a more eco-friendly option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

5. Version Control and Audit Trails

When multiple employees are working on the same document, keeping track of changes and versions can be challenging. A document management system provides version control, which allows users to save and track changes to documents over time. This is especially useful in industries that require precision and accuracy, such as the legal or financial sectors.

Document management system software also has audit trails which record who accessed the document, what changes were made, and when they were made. This is important for industries that have to comply with stringent regulatory standards.

For example, a contract document management system will track every update to a contract so no version is lost and all revisions are recorded.

6. Automated Workflow and Task Management

A document management system can automate many of the manual processes that slow down business. Automated workflows can route documents for review, approval or signature without human intervention. For example, a document can be automatically sent to the right manager or department for review, reducing delays and speeding up decision making.

With enterprise content management systems, you can manage tasks associated with documents more efficiently. For example, the system can assign tasks related to document processing such as approvals or document indexing. This automates the process and ensures tasks are completed on time, reducing human error and oversight.

7. Scalable and Flexible Solutions

One of the major benefits of a document management system is its scalability. Whether you’re a small business or an enterprise, a DMS system can grow with you. As your business expands, your document management system software can be easily scaled to accommodate additional users, storage, and documents.

For a growing company, an enterprise document management system offers the flexibility to manage large volumes of documents without compromising on speed or performance. A cloud-based document management system can be particularly beneficial here, as it offers easy scalability without the need for significant upfront investments in hardware or infrastructure. This makes it an ideal solution for businesses that need to adjust their document management capabilities quickly and efficiently.

Document Management Systems as a Business Necessity

Adopting a document management system is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for businesses that want to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency, ensure compliance, enhance collaboration, or save costs, a document management system provides a comprehensive solution that addresses all these needs.

From small businesses to large enterprises, investing in a document management system can lead to increased productivity, better document security, and more streamlined business processes. By leveraging the power of an electronic document management system, businesses can ensure they remain organized, efficient, and prepared for the future.

Bosch reveals the best appliances for pet-friendly homes ahead of World Pet Day

Animal lovers around the world are set to celebrate World Pet Day on 11th April and to mark the occasion Bosch is highlighting three of the best cleaning appliances for pet owners. These gadgets ensure Irish homeowners can keep their house spotless, offering powerful cleaning, advanced filtration, and pet-specific features that make co-existing with furry friends easier than ever.

Let’s take a closer look at the range:

Ace Allergies with the Bosch Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Unlimited 10   

29% of Irish people suffer with allergies and this figure is growing year on year and the Bosch Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Unlimited 10 is the ultimate cleaning solution for pet owners combatting allergies. Featuring MicroClean™ Technology, this powerhouse detects and removes even microscopic dirt particles, leaving your floors and furniture spotless – no matter how much your pet sheds. The MicroClean™ Brush delivers Bosch’s best dust pick-up, capturing over 99.9%* of dust, pet dander, and allergens. Equipped with a HEPA Filtration System, it traps 99.99%* of allergens, so you and your pets can breathe easy. Regular vacuuming with a high-efficiency filter will reduce pet-related allergens, ensuring a healthier home environment for all the family.

Goodbye Unwanted Fluff, hello Bosch Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Unlimited 7

Designed for effortless and efficient pet hair removal, the Unlimited 7 is a lightweight, cordless vacuum built for easy manoeuvrability. With its Anti-Hair Tangle Technology, it will prevent pet hair from wrapping around the brush, making maintenance a breeze – a gamechanger for pet owners. With an exchangeable 3.0 Ah battery, it delivers up to 33% longer cleaning sessions, so you can outlast even the most determined shedders. Plus, the Nozzle Foot Release allows seamless switching from floor cleaning to tight spaces without bending over, while the vacuum’s removable parts make for simple and hygienic upkeep. An Unlimited 7 ProAnimal is also available, with 70% bigger diameter of brush roll for fast and strong pick up of pet hairs. For best results, vacuum high-traffic pet areas regularly to prevent buildup.

Top of the Mops… Bosch 2 in 1 Vacuum and Mop Unlimited 7 Aqua

For pet owners looking for a deeper clean, the Unlimited 7 Aqua combines vacuuming and mopping in one innovative device. This 2-in-1 wonder vacuums and mops at the same time, easily wiping away those pesky paw prints and accidental spills. It’s powerful spin pads rotate at 200 rpm to provide effective stain removal and precise water distribution for a brilliant shine. Plus, the automatic water supply keeps the pads moist, so you don’t have to worry about refilling or manually spraying. With attachments like a Flex Tube to reach those tricky spots, an upholstery brush for your furry friend’s hair, and a mini brush perfect for cleaning around skirting boards, this vacuum makes pet messes a breeze to clean up.

Bosch is the ultimate solution for pet owners seeking a hassle-free life and a clean home, with cutting-edge appliances available from leading home appliance retailers across Ireland, keeping on top of daily chores has never been easier.

Digital investment in Ireland at risk due to data centre regulation

A seminar on Ireland’s energy future will discuss how regulation and infrastructural challenges in energy are negatively impacting economic growth in Ireland.

Taking place on Wednesday 2 April and hosted by Engineers Ireland’s Energy, Environment, and Climate Action Division, The Merging Energy Landscape – A Pivotal Shift in Industry to Address the Carbon Budget Challenge Seminar, will also highlight the challenges businesses face to reduce emissions, the pressure on industry to meet targets, and the impact on the environment and economy if we fall short.

Speakers at the seminar will include Ciara Ahern, senior lecturer of Building Engineering, TU Dublin and Peter Lantry, Managing Director, Ireland, Equinix a global data centre provider.

According to Ciara Ahern: “The future of smart buildings lies in their ability to act as flexible demand assets within our evolving energy systems. Yet, there is still a significant gap between where we are and where we need to be. This seminar will explore how emerging guidelines, scalable solutions, and digital infrastructure can enable buildings to participate in energy markets—reducing carbon emissions and enhancing grid resilience while facilitating greater penetration of renewable energy.”

Equinix owns 268 data centres globally, including four retail colocation facilities and 2 xScale facilities in Dublin. Peter Lantry will discuss the need for Ireland to address existing barriers to further digital investment if the country is to avoid missing crucial economic opportunities. “Ireland, especially Dublin, has successfully attracted digital services companies, including data centres, over the past 40 years. The challenge now is how to keep pace with other tech nations amid energy distribution and supply issues that have deterred data centre development, which impacts Ireland’s economy.”

Additional speakers at the seminar will include Conor Minogue, Senior Executive at IBEC discussing the business case for meeting climate action targets, and Heidi Duffy, Operations Environmental and Sustainability Manager at Iarnród Éireann, sharing insights on the challenges and solutions to the transition to sustainable public transport.

This event will take place in Engineers Ireland, 22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Tickets are available at www.engineersireland.ie or by following this link.

SolarSmart Wins Irish SFA Award for Transforming Solar Energy Accessibility & Powering Ireland’s Path to 1 Million Solar Rooftops.

SolarSmart Energy Ltd, Ireland’s only female-owned domestic and commercial solar company, has been awarded the Irish Small Firms Association (SFA) Services Award. This national recognition underscores SolarSmart’s impact in making solar power more accessible and financially viable for Irish homeowners, businesses, and farmers.

Empowering Solar Adoption in Ireland
Founded by Morgan Pierce in 2020, SolarSmart has rapidly become a leader in Ireland’s renewable energy sector. The company has installed over 1,200 solar PV systems, contributing nearly 7 Megawatts annually toward Ireland’s climate action goals. SolarSmart’s customer-centric approach, including up-front SEAI grants and hassle-free financing, has removed traditional barriers to solar adoption, making it easier and more affordable to transition to renewable energy.

“Winning this award is a huge honour and a reflection of our team’s dedication to delivering top-tier solar solutions with customer service at the core,” said Morgan Pierce, Founder and CEO of SolarSmart. “Our mission is to ensure that solar power is not just an environmental choice but also a financially smart one for every Irish household and business.”

Powering Ireland’s Electricity Demand & Driving a Renewable Future
Ireland’s electricity demand is set to rise by 45% over the next decade, fueled by increasing consumption from data centers, electric vehicles, and heat pumps. This growing energy demand underscores the urgent need for scalable, sustainable solutions.

At the same time, with a target of 1 million solar rooftops by 2030, equating to 2.5 gigawatts of capacity or 22% of all residential electricity demand, Ireland is currently far behind. Estimates suggest that only 100,000 homes have installed solar, leaving 900,000 more to be equipped in the next five years.

SolarSmart is leading the charge in closing this gap. By prioritising affordability, customer service, and sustainability, the company is enabling the transition to solar with ease. Committed to accelerating Ireland’s renewable future, SolarSmart aims to install 5,000 solar systems annually, ensuring that the country stays on track to meet its energy and climate commitments.

SolarSmart’s growth trajectory has been exceptional, more than doubling installations each year. Key business driver milestones include:

Up-Front SEAI Grant Processing: SolarSmart became one of the first solar companies in Ireland to credit the SEAI grant to customers immediately, eliminating the financial strain of waiting for reimbursements.
New Low-Interest Financing Option: Launched in partnership with Finance Ireland, allowing homeowners to install solar panels for a lower monthly cost than their expected energy savings.

The Team & 4-Day Workweek for Installation Group: A first in the Irish solar industry, ensuring work-life balance for staff who often travel long hours for installations. This initiative has resulted in zero employee attrition in 2024, a remarkable achievement in a sector struggling with workforce retention.

Customer-First Approach: With 86% of support tickets resolved within one business day and a 1-hour response time, SolarSmart sets the standard for aftercare in the solar industry.

About SolarSmart
A leading provider of photovoltaic (PV) solutions for homes, businesses, and farms across Ireland. Founded in 2020, the company has installed over 1,200 systems to date, contributing to Ireland’s renewable energy transition. SolarSmart offers innovative financing solutions and industry-leading customer service to make solar energy more accessible and cost-effective.

For more information, visit https://solarsmart.ie

Other solar power news

Esri Ireland accelerates national soil survey across 23,000km2 for Aurum Exploration

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), today announces that its digital mapping system enabled Aurum Exploration Services to accelerate the survey of soil samples across almost 23,000km2 in Ireland.

The extensive survey was carried out as part of the Tellus Programme. Led by Geological Survey Ireland and funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the Tellus Programme aims to improve the future management of the environment by building a deeper knowledge of Ireland’s soil, rocks, and water.

Esri’s ArcGIS technology streamlined workflows for Aurum Exploration, enabling it to deliver the ambitious project in just over one year. The technology replaced the traditional paper-based survey process with innovative digital data capture. The paper-based process was time-consuming with a complex data collection method, taking the Tellus Programme team nine years to reach the halfway milestone on the project.

Using the technology, Aurum Exploration’s sampling teams were able to collect, record, and share real-time data on soil samples – ranging from location to land usage and soil characteristics – wherever they were working in the field. Apps could be used even when offline, which was vital for those working in remote locations. Team leaders were able to speedily assign tasks, manage daily workloads, and monitor the project’s progress, while programme managers could oversee the data collection process and share project metrics.

Health and safety were boosted for employees as each team’s location was visible in near real-time. The platform also facilitated rigorous quality control checks, greatly enhancing the accuracy and integrity of soil sample data. Moreover, reports could be generated on-demand, saving time for teams internally.

In turn, these efficiencies contributed to an estimated saving of 120 days per year, and a reduction in overall operational costs of around €40,000 annually for the project.

Judith Mather, Project Manager, Tellus Programme, Aurum Exploration said: “Having a robust and efficient digital system greatly assisted us to cover more ground in a shorter time, and oversight of the national programme really improved. ArcGIS Dashboards gave our directors and client an accurate and visual real-time overview of what was going on, on a national scale, which is what they needed. In addition, the improvement in data quality was a real testament to the success of ArcGIS applications.”

Schalk van Lill, Customer Success Manager, Esri Ireland said: “Our ArcGIS platform has been transformative for the Tellus Programme, and we were delighted to work closely with Aurum Exploration as the team delivered on this vital nationwide project. Reliable data was captured electronically out in the field, reducing the risk of human error and other data collection inconsistencies, even while working remotely. This also boosted productivity, streamlined operations, and improved collaboration among teams for Aurum Exploration. This important project is benefitting our environment now and into the future.”