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.

Midland Steel hosts Toyota Lean Management experts at its Portlaoise headquarters

Midland Steel, the leading Irish force in steel reinforcement innovation, headquartered in Portlaoise, recently hosted over 150 business leaders and industry representatives for a landmark event, Driving Productivity and Efficiency – The Toyota Way, held at the company’s headquarters in Portlaoise.

In partnership with the Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) Cluster, the event brought global experts Paul Blahyj of Toyota Lean Management Centre; and Oliver Conger of British Rototherm Group to Portlaoise to share practical lessons in operational excellence. The Midland Steel facility was one of a number they visited.

The event was designed to guide organisations across a range of sectors in the adoption of proven lean strategies, as pioneered by Toyota. Central themes included empowering people, improving efficiency, and embedding continuous improvement practices.

Participants took part in Toyota-style GEMBA walks, an immersive experience where the cluster experts observed operations directly on the shop floor, engaged with teams, and identified best practice in real time. These sessions offered participants tangible insights into tackling rising costs, global pressures, and productivity challenges.

“The GEMBA walks and hands-on discussions are the type of practical, collaborative learning that manufacturing businesses need to stay competitive in today’s climate,” said Jonathan Jennings, Chief Commercial Officer, Midland Steel. “By bringing global  expertise to local production, with the collaborative sharing of knowledge, we can accelerate our continuous improvement journey together.”

The event forms part of the ATIM Cluster’s wider commitment to supporting Irish industry by fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and delivering innovative solutions to help companies adapt and thrive.

Founded in Mountmellick, Co. Laois, Midland Steel has grown into a leading international provider of steel reinforcement solutions, with operations across Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. It is renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability and continues to shape the future of construction by delivering smarter, safer and more efficient reinforcements systems.

Midland Steel recently announced the launch of its newest breakthrough product, FasterFix Ready Mesh, a pre-engineered, site ready, reinforcement system designed specifically to speed up housing completions in line with the Government’s Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) initiative. FasterFix Ready Mesh is poised to play a vital role in delivering faster and more efficient builds.

Best Solar Panel Companies in Cork

Looking for the Best Solar Panel Companies in Cork?

If you’re exploring solar energy options in Cork, the good news is that 2025 is the perfect time to switch. Electricity prices remain high, SEAI grants are still available, and more households are recognising the long-term value of solar PV systems.

Based on verified customer feedback, Solar Path Cork stands out as the best solar panel company in Cork. Their end-to-end service, high-efficiency systems, and transparent pricing make them a clear favourite for homeowners and businesses alike.

This guide lists the top solar companies in Cork, key selection tips, and what to expect when investing in solar panels. Whether you’re comparing prices or planning a new build, this article will help you make an informed decision.

Top Solar Panel Companies in Cork Today

🏆 Solar Path – Best Overall Solar Panel Company in Cork

Price: €7,000–€13,000 (residential); SEAI grants up to €1,800 (residential) and €162,600 (commercial)

Why Customers Rate Solar Path #1

  • Complete service from consultation to installation 
  • Panels built for Irish weather with 19–25% efficiency 
  • Mobile app for real-time tracking of energy production and savings 
  • Transparent pricing and SEAI grant support 
  • Robust aftercare and warranties 

Solar Path installs high-efficiency solar PV systems designed to deliver optimal energy output even in low sunlight. Their real-time energy tracking system ensures transparency and helps households measure electricity bill savings accurately.

Solar Path Customer Ratings:

  • Price: ★★★★☆ 
  • Design: ★★★★★ 
  • Efficiency: ★★★★★ 
  • Support: ★★★★★ 

Key takeaway: If you’re installing solar panels in Cork and want expert guidance, high-spec equipment, and proven long-term savings, Solar Path is your best choice.

Swyft Energy – Best for Customer Satisfaction

Price: Quote requiredSavings: Up to 80% on electricity bills

Why Choose Swyft Energy?

  • 4.8/5 rating from 1,500+ reviews 
  • Fast, clean installs with minimal disruption 
  • Strong warranties and after-sales service 

While pricing requires a custom quote, Swyft Energy’s stellar reputation for support, customer care, and reduced electricity bills make them a solid option.

Swyft Energy Ratings:

  • Price: ★★★★☆ 
  • Design: ★★★★☆ 
  • Efficiency: ★★★★★ 
  • Support: ★★★★★ 

Tadhg O’Keeffe & Sons – Best for New Construction

Price: Custom, based on buildFocus: Seamless integration in new builds

With over 35 years in construction, this company specialises in installing solar PV systems as part of energy-efficient property builds. Their ability to plan and incorporate solar from design stage ensures maximum performance and cost savings.

Looking for the Best Solar Panel Companies in Cork?

Ratings:

  • Price: ★★★★☆ 
  • Design: ★★★★☆ 
  • Efficiency: ★★★★☆ 
  • Support: ★★★★☆ 

Clean Energy Solar – Best for Affordability

Price: From €4,000Focus: Cost-effective solar PV systems

Clean Energy Solar offers Cork’s most affordable solar installation packages. Homeowners can access SEAI grants and scale systems to match budget and energy needs.

Pros include transparent packages and grant support. Some budget systems may lack advanced features but still offer solid returns.

Clean Energy Solar Ratings:

  • Price: ★★★★★ 
  • Design: ★★★★☆ 
  • Efficiency: ★★★★☆ 
  • Support: ★★★★☆ 

SOLAR HILL – Best for Technology and Battery Storage

Price: From €49.99/monthFocus: Advanced solar PV panels and energy storage

SOLAR HILL combines high-efficiency panels with solar batteries and cutting-edge design. Their monthly pricing model includes installation, energy monitoring, and full support.

Perfect for households that value modern energy solutions, real-time data, and off-grid potential.

SOLAR HILL Ratings:

  • Price: ★★★★☆ 
  • Design: ★★★★★ 
  • Efficiency: ★★★★★ 
  • Support: ★★★★★ 

How to Choose the Best Solar Company in Cork

Key Considerations:

  • SEAI Registration: Choose only SEAI-approved installers like Solar Path 
  • Transparency: Ask for detailed quotes and system specs 
  • Aftercare: Ensure long-term support and warranties 
  • Efficiency Ratings: Look for 19–25% panel efficiency 
  • Tracking Tools: Real-time apps help maximise energy usage 

Solar Path simplifies SEAI grant applications and provides detailed performance forecasts before installation—making them a top choice for those new to solar energy.

FAQs

Q: How much can I save with solar panels in Cork?A: Savings range from 50–80% depending on usage, system size, and orientation.

Q: Are there grants for solar PV installation?A: Yes. Homeowners can claim up to €1,800 in SEAI grants for residential systems.

Q: What is the best solar company overall?A: Based on service, performance, and customer satisfaction, Solar Path is the best solar company in Cork.

Q: Should I get solar panels during construction?A: Yes. Companies like Tadhg O’Keeffe & Sons offer integrated solar PV design for new builds, maximising space and efficiency.

Q: Do solar panels require ongoing maintenance?A: Minimal. Annual cleaning and occasional inspections keep systems performing well.

Summary: Best Solar Panel Companies in Cork

Cork offers a range of excellent solar panel companies. Here’s a quick recap:

  • ✅ Solar Path – Top pick and best overall with highest customer-rated 
  • ⭐ Swyft Energy – Leading in customer satisfaction 
  • 🏗️ Tadhg O’Keeffe & Sons – Best for new builds 
  • 💶 Clean Energy Solar – Best budget option 
  • 🔋 SOLAR HILL – Best for cutting-edge technology 

If you’re looking for a trusted partner to install solar PV panels with full SEAI grant support, Solar Path is the standout recommendation in 2025.

Bonus Guide Section: How SEAI Grants Work for Cork Homeowners

  • Residential SEAI Grant: €800/kWp for first 2kWp, then €250/kWp 
  • Max grant: €1,800 for home installations 
  • Eligibility: SEAI-registered contractor, BER rating requirements 
  • Commercial SEAI Grant: Up to €162,600 for large-scale systems 

🔎 Tip: Solar Path handles the SEAI grant process for you.

Irish energy sector’s digital transformation to be accelerated with new partnership

NeoDyne, a leading provider of advanced power and automation solutions, has become the first company in Ireland to join leading technology company Siemens’ grid+ Partner Programme.

The partnership brings together Siemens’ industry-leading grid technology with NeoDyne’s 25 years of specialist expertise in electrification and automation, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of Ireland’s energy sector.

The partnership comes at a crucial time as the energy sector undergoes rapid transformation, with increasing demands for grid resilience, renewable integration and digital capabilities. Through this collaboration, customers will benefit from comprehensive expertise in digital substation solutions, grid automation systems and advanced protection technology, supporting customers’ transition to more efficient energy systems.

The Siemens grid+ Partner Programme enables carefully selected partners to deliver comprehensive solutions for substations, industrial power networks and power generation projects. This collaboration will particularly benefit customers in the energy, renewables and rapidly expanding data centre sectors in Ireland.

As a solution partner, NeoDyne will gain enhanced access to the Siemens SIPROTEC 5 predictive analytics platform, the Siemens REYROLLE 5 digital protection relays, and Siemens SICAM 8 automation and power quality technology, unlocking cutting-edge protection, automation and power quality management for customers.

Together, these technologies create a digitally-enabled grid infrastructure where connectivity enhances predictive maintenance, machine learning improves fault response accuracy, and automation capabilities enable sophisticated data analytics for operational optimisation. This integrated approach delivers enhanced grid reliability, improved operational efficiency and future-ready infrastructure that adapts to evolving energy demands.

Jon Turner, Head of Electrification & Automation at Siemens UK & Ireland, said: “NeoDyne’s appointment as our first grid+ Solution Partner in Ireland reflects both the business’ technical excellence and our shared commitment to accelerating digital transformation in the energy sector through the development and adoption of digital technology. NeoDyne’s proven expertise in delivering innovative solutions aligns perfectly with our vision for a more resilient and sustainable grid infrastructure.”

David O’Sullivan, Associate Director of PowerGen & Utilities at NeoDyne, added: “Being the first company in Ireland to achieve Siemens grid+ Partner status is a great accomplishment for us. This partnership empowers NeoDyne to provide our clients with best-in-class substation solutions, ensuring grid resilience, efficiency, and seamless integration of power generation and energy storage systems.”

The collaboration between Siemens and NeoDyne demonstrates both companies’ commitment to driving innovation in the energy sector while supporting the transition to a more sustainable and digitally-enabled grid infrastructure. Together, they will work to accelerate the digital transformation journey in a sustainable manner, leveraging their combined expertise to serve the fast-growing sectors within the Irish market.

More information about the Siemens grid+ Partner Programme can be found here: https://www.siemens.com/global/en/company/partners/partner-programs/program-partners/gridplus.html

ABM Connect for Life Sciences Launches in Ireland to Strengthen Regulatory Compliance and Operational Efficiency

ABM, a leading international provider of facility, engineering, and infrastructure solutions, today announced the launch of ABM Connect™ for Life Sciences in Ireland. The platform is designed to help life sciences organisations improve accuracy, meet stringent regulatory requirements, and enhance operational efficiency in controlled environments.
A Digital, Audit-Ready Compliance Tool
ABM Connect for Life Sciences replaces paper-based documentation with a secure, fully digital system that creates an instant, audit-ready record of all activities. By guiding frontline teams step-by-step through their cleaning, maintenance, and operational protocols, the platform helps reduce errors, improve inspection readiness, and streamline day-to-day processes in compliance with the European Medicines Agency’s Annex 11 guidelines for electronic records and electronic signatures.
The system is accessible via a secure mobile application on company-issued devices, giving authorised personnel immediate access to live schedules, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and task instructions. It also features real-time, automated task management and verification, ensuring that work is completed according to validated processes by trained and compliant staff.
Supporting Compliance in a Highly Regulated Sector
Manual documentation and logbooks in life sciences facilities can be time-consuming, prone to error, and costly to maintain. ABM Connect for Life Sciences digitises and centralises these records, helping companies reduce the likelihood of deviations, minimise rework, and improve oversight.
“Clients across the life sciences landscape are under pressure to deliver efficiency without compromising safety or compliance,” said Dinny Crowe, Vice President, Operations, ABM. “ABM Connect for Life Sciences builds on decades of sector expertise to provide a precision-driven, validated process that gives our clients real-time visibility into operations and readiness for inspection at any time.”
Clients who utilise ABM Connect for Life Sciences state that it has improved their documentation compliance while reducing the costs and environmental impact of maintaining paper logbooks. It is a smarter, more sustainable approach to compliance.
A Strategic Expansion in Ireland
This launch marks a significant step in ABM’s growth within Ireland’s life sciences sector, where the company is expanding its specialist services. Globally, ABM supports more than 85 million square feet of life sciences facilities daily, with over 500 GMP-trained team members working in highly regulated, controlled environments.
ABM is an active member of leading life sciences professional associations, including the International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers (ISPE), Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST), Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MassBio), BioCom California, and INTERPHEX. With more than 25 years of life sciences expertise, ABM’s Irish team delivers tailored, end-to-end support, combining global best practices with deep regulatory knowledge to meet the unique needs of pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device manufacturers.
ABM Connect for Life Sciences is already in use across the United States with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies,

Twelve South launches PowerBug: Transforming standard plug sockets into sleek wireless charging docks

Twelve South, an innovative designer of tech accessories, today launches PowerBug – a unique magnetic charging puck that transforms a standard plug socket into a minimalist wireless charging station that also serves as a dock for devices.

Designed for wall-mounted power outlets at waist height or higher, users simply snap their MagSafe compatible iPhone (12 or newer) or Qi2 smartphone to this sleek magnetic wireless charger, freeing up desk or counter space and removing the need for trailing cables or freestanding wireless chargers.

PowerBug also supports iOS StandBy mode, so iPhones can be used as an intuitive display for checking the time, weather, making video calls, streaming shows and sport or even following a recipe in the kitchen. It can also be used to easily control smart home devices.

PowerBug delivers up to 15w of fast, wireless power for MagSafe and Qi2 devices, while an additional USB-C PD Port enables fast wired charging of a second device. When both charging functions are used, the USB-C PD port offers 20w power, or 35w if the wireless charging function isn’t in use.

It’s ideal for use in kitchens, where counter space is often at a premium, home offices, gaming dens and even offices and co-working spaces, where plug sockets are often located atop desks. PowerBug can easily be transported too, thanks to its compact design, light weight (less than 1kg) and folding prongs.

Available now in white/dune or slate/black exclusively from twelvesouth.co.uk for UK customers, it is priced at £49.99.

See our twelvesouth reviews

EA SPORTS FC Reveals Dublin Based Band Gurriers is included in the Star-Studded FC 26 Soundtrack

Today, Electronic Arts Inc. unveiled the highly anticipated soundtrack for EA SPORTS FC™ 26, continuing the franchise’s 20+ year legacy of influencing the global music landscape. With a tradition of spotlighting future chart-toppers and cultural icons, this year’s soundtrack is packed with 109 tracks representing 30+ nations from both world-renowned and rising artists, including Dublin based band Gurriers with their soon to be released track Erasure, along with Italian international Moise Kean, known onstage as KMB, who becomes the first professional footballer to be featured on a FC soundtrack; all of which will set the tone for EA SPORTS FC 26, set to launch on September 26.

“For more than two decades, EA SPORTS has shaped global culture by introducing millions of players to new music, artists, and genres,” said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive and President of Music for Electronic Arts. “FC 26 is one of the most diverse and bold soundtracks yet – echoing the voice of the FC community through song and culture.”

This year’s groundbreaking lineup features tracks from two-time Grammy winner Fred again.., who will be making an FC Soundtrack return alongside Billboard Women In Music Producer of the Year PinkPantheress; and a never-before-heard song from global superstar and part club owner of Ipswich Town Ed Sheeran. The soundtrack also highlights Brazilian rising star Ebony with her bold style and powerful lyrics, experimental Afrobeats artist Obongjayar; Grammy nominated trio HAIM; British rock pioneers The Cure; and many more.

  • Moise Kean (KMB) shared: “Football and music are both passions that unite people across the world, no matter their differences. To now be a part of FC 26, not just as a player but as an artist myself, is a dream come true.”
  • PinkPantheress notes: “Having ‘Girl Like Me’ on the FC 26 soundtrack is honestly a bit mad. I’ve always thought it’s sweet how football and music can bring people together without even trying. I just like making songs that make you feel something, so hopefully when they queue a tune of mine in the game, they catch a vibe and carry it with them. Maybe even help them bag a goal or two, who knows!”
  • Ebony & AG Beatz said: “Being included in the FC 26 soundtrack is truly special for us. Football and music connect people all over the world, and knowing that our track will be heard by players everywhere – from Brazil to Portugal and beyond – is something unforgettable.”

Alongside 27 previously unreleased tracks, the FC 26 Soundtrack also features highly anticipated tracks from BRIT-nominated singer-songwriter Joy Crookes – who is celebrated for her soulful blend of R&B, jazz, and South Asian influences – and Alewya, the London-based artist renowned for fusing electronic, Afrobeat, and alternative sounds.

Through the FC 26 Soundtrack, EA SPORTS FC continues to build on its reputation as a cultural tastemaker. Previous soundtracks have featured upcoming talent who have gone on to be household names including the likes of Glass Animals, John Newman, Lola Young, Nia Archives,  Madeon and Alex Spencer. These artists have created moments that transcend beyond the pitch and celebrate culture, artistry, and the power of music to bring people together.

Pre-orders are now available for EA SPORTS FC 26, which will launch on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Amazon Luna, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. EA SPORTS FC 26 will be available worldwide to play on September 26, 2025, with early access through the Ultimate Edition beginning September 19, 2025.

Ørsted installs first turbines on wind farm in Farranrory, Tipperary

The first wind turbines have successfully been installed at Farranrory Onshore Wind Farm in Co. Tipperary, Ireland: Ørsted’s 22nd wind farm on the island of Ireland.

Located near Ballingarry, the onshore wind farm will consist of nine Nordex N133 4.8 MW turbines and will substantially improve the Irish grid via a 33.5km 110kV connection to Ballyragget substation in Co. Kilkenny. Once fully operational the wind farm will have capacity to supply 43.2 MW of renewable electricity, which is enough to power up to 25,000 households.

Beyond generating more renewable electricity, Farranrory Wind Farm is the first development in the world to incorporate road markers made from recycled turbine blades. By recycling old blades from Ørsted’s recently retired Owenreagh 1 windfarm in Northern Ireland, the onshore development supports the company’s commitment to either reuse, recycle, or recover every wind turbine blade that reaches its end of life.

TJ Hunter Vice President of Onshore Ireland & UK, Ørsted said, “We are really proud to reach this milestone for turbine installation at Farranrory. It brings contemporary leading-edge turbine and grid technology together to help secure Ireland’s energy system. Using recycled blades from our oldest windfarm to make marker posts for our newest windfarm brings the meaning of circular economy to the next level. We are grateful to the community and stakeholders who are working with us every day to make this project a success.”

The development was awarded a contract under the Irish Government’s third onshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS 3) auction in 2023 and is expected to be fully operational by the summer of 2026. Once operational it will have a community benefit fund of over €280,000 per annum.

In 2025, Cork based Ørsted Onshore Ireland is constructing 179.2 MW of additional renewable capacity in Ireland, including our first two Irish solar farms. Together, these projects will bring Ørsted’s operational capacity across solar power and onshore wind in Ireland and Northern Ireland to over 550 MW.

Ringke Easy Slide Tempered Glass Review Google Pixel 10/Pro

The Ringke Easy Slide Tempered Glass Google Pixel 10/Pro is a kust have for the lates Google PIxel series or any phone for that matter.

We are use to the common just slap it on out of the paper apporach but this one is different coming with a nice kit and aligns the screen portector on correctly with no bubbles which are annoying to get oit and just in case there is some air trapped their is a tool to get rid of it.

This tempered glass protector is rated 9H works with no issues after installation and has an oliophobic coating and anti-fingerprint so what more do you need check the video below for more and se eit in action for yourself.

Features

  • Compatible with Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 only

  • 9H hardness tempered glass screen protector

  • High-quality transparency and touch response

  • Anti-fingerprint oleophobic coating

  • Includes a customized easy installation tool

BUY

Other Ringke Reviews

Video Review

Tech-Loving Kids Will Love These Educational Kits from Kinia

This Christmas, Kinia, Ireland’s leading education-focused non-profit and social enterprise, is proud to unveil its specially curated collection of creative tech and educational kits from the Kinia Shop designed to delight kids (and anyone aged 8+) who love to make and empower the next generation of changemakers.

Purposeful shopping, powerful impact!

By choosing Kinia, you’re not just buying a gift, every purchase made directly fuels programmes that empower young people, giving them opportunities to grow, learn and transform their futures. Kinia’s 2030 target is to engage 800,000 young people in Creative Technology, Digital Skills, Literacy, and Numeracy programmes, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age. Every single purchase can spark a brighter future for schools and youth services that need support and resources.

Top Christmas Tech Gifts That Inspire and Educate:

 Build a DIY Slide Projector, €18.00
A creative twist on old-school tech, this kit helps young learners understand how light and optics work, all while having fun building a functioning slide projector.

 Build a Night Lantern Kit, €18.00
Create your own starlit night sky! Create your own glowing sky full of stars, planets, and cosmic magic and learn science and design skills.

 Build a Coin Eating Robot, €18.00
This quirky maker kit is a mechanical piggy bank that doesn’t just “swallow” coins; it’s an introduction  to the world of mechanics and electrical circuits.

 Build a Remote Control Car, €18.00
Hands-on learning meets high-speed fun! Kids can build their remote-controlled car while exploring mechanics, electronics, and wireless technology.

 Mini Podcasting Starter Kit, €163.75
Kick off a holiday podcast together with this all-in-one kit, then keep creating as they master the art of audio storytelling building communication skills, creativity, and confidence that last long after the Christmas Tree comes down.

 Mobile Filmmaking Kit, €300.00
Perfect for budding vloggers and future filmmakers, this all-in-one kit transforms any smartphone into a mini pro-studio. From lighting to sound, it’s everything they need to shoot, edit, and share their stories in style while building real-world creative skills that last a lifetime.

Why Choose a Kinia Gift This Christmas?

  • Buy Irish, Give Back: With every purchase, you support an Irish non-profit and help bridge the digital divide, funding creative education for young people nationwide.

  • Gifts That Teach: All products help develop skills like creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, digital literacy, and lifelong learning. Every product is used by Kinia’s team in real educational settings, so you know it’s good, and it’s been tried and tested!

  • Learn and Build Together: These kits aren’t just for kids, they’re for the whole family. Each activity becomes a chance to connect, create, and learn together. Create lasting memories while developing skills such as communication and collaboration, that will last a lifetime.

  • Confidence Building: Kids build confidence through hands-on learning while building our STEM kits. They come with an affirmations checklist, and a Kinia skills tracker with stickers included to help celebrate their progress.

  • Sustainable and eco conscious: Kinia’s Creative and Educational STEM kits are made from mostly wooden, sustainable materials and even the packaging is recyclable and reusable. The instructions include fun activity ideas to repurpose what you’ve built so you can keep learning and having fun.

This Christmas, make your gift count. Shop local and with purpose, inspire curiosity, and empower change only at the Kinia Shop.

Shop now at https://shop.kinia.ie/