Tag: energy

Breaking Down the Different Types of EV Chargers

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming part of everyday transportation. As more drivers consider making the switch, understanding how these vehicles are charged is a key part of the transition. EV chargers come in several forms, each with different technical specifications and use cases. Whether at home, work, or on the road, charging infrastructure plays a crucial role in the practical usability of electric cars.

Knowing which charger fits a particular scenario can help owners save time, manage energy costs, and improve their driving experience. While the differences between charger types may appear technical at first glance, a closer look reveals practical distinctions that influence charging speed, convenience, and compatibility. From basic residential units to powerful public charging stations, each type offers a unique approach to keeping an electric car ready for the road.

A Starting Point for Home Use

Level 1 chargers are the simplest and most accessible charging solution available. These use a standard household outlet, typically delivering around 120 volts. For drivers who don’t travel long distances each day, Level 1 charging can be sufficient. This method usually adds about 3 to 5 miles of range per hour, which works well for overnight charging.

Although the charging rate is slow, there are benefits to this low-voltage system. It requires no additional installation, making it cost-effective and easy to begin using immediately after purchasing a vehicle. Many automakers include a Level 1 charger with the vehicle. While it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with longer commutes or irregular schedules, it provides a reliable backup or secondary charging option.

Common in Homes and Public Spaces

Level 2 chargers operate on a 240-volt power source and offer a significant improvement in speed over Level 1 options. These chargers are often installed in residential garages or at commercial properties where vehicles remain parked for longer periods. Charging speeds vary depending on the amperage and can generally range from 15 to 30 miles of range per hour.

Installation of a Level 2 unit often requires a dedicated circuit and professional electrical work. Many homeowners opt to upgrade their setup to enjoy faster charging at home. These chargers appear in public parking areas, office complexes, and shopping centers. Their balance of speed and accessibility makes them an ideal choice for daily use and supports the driving patterns of a wide range of users.

Charging Networks and Public Infrastructure

Public charging stations offer convenience to those who drive long distances or do not have access to home charging. These networks are expanding rapidly to keep pace with EV adoption. Charging stations vary widely in terms of power delivery, availability, and access. Some are part of subscription-based networks, while others are pay-as-you-go or free to use.

Retailers, municipalities, and highway service areas are integrating charging infrastructure to support travelers. In urban areas, public chargers are essential for residents who park on the street or in shared facilities. The availability of public charging stations can influence where people choose to live, shop, and work, making their placement an increasingly strategic consideration for city planners and businesses alike.

Fast Charging and the Role of DC Technology

Fast charging is essential for drivers who need to get back on the road quickly. Unlike Level 1 and Level 2 systems, which rely on alternating current (AC), fast chargers use direct current (DC) to send power directly to the battery. This reduces the time needed for a substantial recharge. DC fast chargers are most commonly found along highways and at major transportation hubs.

The speed of a fast charger depends on the vehicle’s capacity and the charger’s output, but it can often provide an 80 percent charge in less than 30 minutes. That makes them ideal for road trips or busy drivers who can’t leave their car plugged in for hours. Many electric vehicle manufacturers and third-party providers are investing in these systems to reduce range anxiety and make EVs a more practical choice for every type of driver. In many modern networks, the level 3 DC fast charger plays a central role, capable of delivering power at a rate much higher than other systems. Positioned strategically along travel corridors and within high-traffic areas, these chargers allow electric vehicle users to plan longer journeys with confidence. While not typically used for daily home charging, their speed and efficiency make them a necessary part of the broader charging ecosystem.


Compatibility and Connector Types

Compatibility between vehicles and chargers depends on connector types and onboard charging capacity. Most EVs in North America use the SAE J1772 connector for Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Tesla vehicles have proprietary connectors and offer adapters for other systems. For DC fast charging, common connector standards include CHAdeMO, CCS (Combined Charging System), and Tesla’s Supercharger plug.

The type of connector affects where and how a driver can charge. Newer vehicles tend to support faster charging and come with more flexible options. Understanding these variations can prevent confusion and save time, especially when using public charging stations. Some apps and navigation systems include filter tools that show compatible chargers based on the car model, simplifying the experience.

Smart Chargers and Energy Management

Advancements in charging technology are introducing smarter energy use. Many Level 2 chargers now come equipped with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to schedule charging during off-peak hours or monitor progress remotely. These features offer cost-saving opportunities by taking advantage of lower electricity rates.

Utilities in some regions offer incentives for smart charger installation, recognizing their value in managing grid demand. Businesses and property managers benefit from monitoring tools, which provide insights into charger usage, energy consumption, and maintenance needs. These upgrades support a more efficient use of resources and prepare infrastructure for a growing EV population.

A thorough understanding of EV charging options helps drivers make informed decisions based on their routines and needs. From the simplicity of Level 1 systems to the high-speed capabilities of Level 3 fast chargers, each solution plays a part in supporting electric mobility. As the industry continues to grow, improvements in convenience, compatibility, and infrastructure will guide the way forward for both new and experienced EV owners.

Understanding How Suction Pumps Work in Various Applications

Suction pumps are remarkable devices widely employed across different industries for various important functions. Their primary job is to move fluids or slurries by creating a vacuum, allowing atmospheric pressure to push liquid into the pump where it can be transferred to another location. Used in many applications ranging from water supply systems to waste management, the versatility and effectiveness of suction pumps make them invaluable in modern technology. Understanding how these pumps work and their operational applications can help in achieving efficient management of resources, emphasizing the significance of choosing the right type of pump for specific needs.

The Mechanism Behind Suction Pumps

At their core, suction pumps operate on simple physical principles. When the pump is activated, it creates a low-pressure area inside its chamber. This pressure difference causes the ambient atmospheric pressure outside the pump to force the fluid upwards through the inlet line. As the fluid enters the pump, it can be compressed and moved forward through the discharge line. The mechanical energy produced by the pump, often from an electric motor, is crucial in ensuring that the fluid is moved effectively, maintaining a continuous flow necessary for many operations. It’s fascinating how this fundamental technology applies to things we often take for granted, such as our household water supply.

Types of Suction Pumps

Suction pumps come in various forms, tailored for specific tasks. The most common types include centrifugal pumps, positive displacement pumps, and diaphragm pumps. Centrifugal pumps operate by converting rotational energy into kinetic energy, making them ideal for low-viscosity fluids. They are typically used in large-scale applications like municipal water supply systems. On the other hand, positive displacement pumps are designed to move a fixed volume of fluid regardless of the system’s pressure. These pumps are suitable for higher viscosity fluids found in industrial applications. 

Diaphragm pumps utilize a flexible diaphragm to create a vacuum and are often employed in environments where contamination must be avoided. If you’re interested in exploring the capabilities of suction pumps, you can go now to discover the facts you should know about flooded suction pumps. Understanding the unique functions and benefits of each type can help you choose the right suction pump for your specific application, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and optimal performance.

Applications of Suction Pumps in Various Industries

Suction pumps find diverse applications across several key industries. In the construction sector, for instance, they are instrumental in dewatering operations at construction sites, preventing water accumulation that could compromise structural integrity. Environmental remediation also benefits significantly from suction pumps, as they help in extracting pollutants or excess water from contaminated sites. 

In the agricultural industry, pumps are used to facilitate irrigation systems, ensuring crops receive an adequate water supply and improving yield. The healthcare sector relies on suction pumps to remove fluids or gases from patients, aiding in various medical procedures and emergencies, highlighting their critical role in healthcare settings.

When to Choose a Suction Pump

Selecting the appropriate suction pump for a specific task requires understanding several factors. While considering applications, one must assess the type of fluid being handled, the required flow rate, and the pressure conditions of the operation. If moving highly viscous materials, a positive displacement pump may be more effective than a centrifugal pump. 

The operational environment plays a significant role. Pumps designed to handle abrasive materials must have appropriate materials for their construction to enhance longevity. Considering maintenance requirements and initial investment costs is crucial in the decision-making process, as selecting the right pump can significantly influence operational efficiency and longevity.

Maintenance of Suction Pumps

Routine maintenance is crucial in prolonging the lifespan of suction pumps and ensuring optimal performance. Regular checks should include monitoring for wear and tear of seals and bearings, as these components can affect efficiency if left unchecked. Keeping the pump clean and free from debris can prevent clogging, ensuring smooth operation. 

Lubricating moving parts according to manufacturer guidelines helps mitigate friction, enhancing pump functionality. Regularly scheduled maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected failures and maximizes operational efficiency, saving time and money in the long run.

The Future of Suction Pump Technology

As technology progresses, the design and efficiency of suction pumps continue to evolve. Innovations such as smart pumps equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) technology allow for real-time monitoring and adjustments. These advancements enhance performance and provide valuable data for optimizing system use and increasing energy efficiency. Important developments are occurring in areas like energy recovery systems, where pumps are being designed to use captured energy to improve efficiency. As sustainability becomes more critical across industries, suction pump technology is expected to adapt, contributing to more eco-friendly operational practices in diverse applications. 

 

The importance of understanding suction pumps cannot be overstated. Their multifaceted roles in various sectors underscore their relevance in modern applications. The mechanics behind suction pumps, their different types, and their specific use cases across industries provide insight into their vast capabilities and benefits. Armed with this knowledge, industries can make informed decisions that lead to greater efficiency and effectiveness.

5 Green Initiatives Every Business Should Implement

For any business in this modern day of living, going green shouldn’t be much of an issue. There’s ample opportunity nowadays to cut down your waste and help the environment wherever possible.

After all, we all bear a responsibility to the environment, and that’s one that weighs even heavier for the average business in comparison to domestic households.

Here are five green initiatives that every business, including yours, should implement right now.

1. Reducing waste and recycling more

Is there waste that you’re getting rid of that could actually be recycled or reused in some way? How much are you contributing currently, and what does that compare to with other businesses?

Every ounce of waste you contribute to the landfills does damage to the world around us ,and so it’s important to try and minimize the waste as much as possible for your business. Look at what methods you could use to reduce waste and recycle more within your business. There’s likely a lot of change you could make for the benefit of the environment.

2. Go paperless

Going paperless is certainly important and a good way of helping to reduce the amount of wasted trees that are being cut down. It’s impacting the local wildlife and the habitats of animals that rely on trees as their homes.

Living in the digital world we’re in now, there’s really no excuse not to go paperless. If you’re doing a lot of your work online, reading documents and signing them through a computer screen, then there’s a lot of paper usage that could be cut.

3. Invest in solar panel energy

Solar panel energy has become increasingly popular due to the accessibility of these panels and the ROI it provides over time. It’s a lot more affordable than it once was, due to the demand it now has.

Everything that you can do to help reduce your energy consumption is key, so switching to commercial solar solutions might be just the change required to do more to help.

4. Build sustainable supply chains

Building sustainable supply chains is a great way to have a wider impact beyond just your own company. You can make a conscious choice to work closer with companies that are more sustainably driven and are making an active effort to be green in their practices.

Take a look at what your suppliers are doing currently and whether they’re able to adapt and change at your request. If not, then you could always look elsewhere for your suppliers.

5. Corporate responsibility initiatives 

Finally, there’s a responsibility to do more as businesses, so why not have some corporate responsibility initiatives in place? These can be a clear message to the general public that you have a commitment to sustainability. Support local programs and run your own to help encourage employees to make their own efforts.

With these green initiatives, you can work towards a more environmentally-conscious company that takes action and makes an impact that lasts. Use these tips to help get started with your business.

 

Klohn Crippen Berger Taps Ireland for European Expansion

Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB), a global engineering consulting firm is pleased to announce its expansion into Ireland with the opening of an office in Naas. The office will support KCB’s existing presence in Europe, serving mining clients in Ireland and its surrounding jurisdictions. 

Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with offices in ten countries, KCB provides engineering, geosciences, and environmental services for clients in the hydropower, mining, transportation, energy, and infrastructure sectors. KCB aims to establish a multidisciplinary consulting business in Ireland. The initial focus will be on building out its mining team with qualified professionals in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, hydrology, hydrogeology, and geochemistry.

This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism & Employment Peter Burke TD said “I warmly welcome Klohn Crippen Berger’s decision to establish its new European office in Naas. This investment is another strong endorsement of Ireland’s reputation as a hub for engineering excellence and innovation. KCB’s presence will not only enhance our capabilities in the engineering and environmental consultancy sectors, it will also create high-value employment opportunities for skilled professionals. The Government, through IDA Ireland, is committed to supporting companies like KCB as they grow and thrive in our dynamic business environment. I wish the KCB team in Kildare the very best for the future.”

Ryan Douglas, KCB President & CEO stated: “KCB’s strategic focus is increasing our geographic reach and growing our global workforce across all our key regions, delivering innovative solutions to clients in the hydropower, transportation, and mining sectors. The establishment of our Ireland office in Naas marks a significant milestone in our 75-year history and specifically for our European growth strategy. As KCB continues to evolve with the industry, our unwavering focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainability remains central to our identity as a trusted partner to clients and an employer of choice for top talent.”

Brian Keenan, KCB Ireland Lead said: “The introduction of KCB into Ireland provides high-quality resources to aid in its mining sector transformation. KCB leverages its long-standing experience, company values and exceptional technical standards to meet the needs of clients in Ireland and Europe.”

CEO of IDA Ireland Michael Lohan said: ““IDA Ireland is pleased to welcome Klohn Crippen Berger to Ireland.  The company’s decision to locate in Naas highlights the value of Ireland as a strategic location from which organisations can serve Europe and the rest of the world. We look forward to partnering with KCB to support their future growth and development here.”

Leading energy solutions provider SE Systems makes €500,000 available for Irish communities

SE Systems, a leading national provider of energy solutions, has announced that €500,000* is available for Irish communities as part of its Community Fund. The €500,000 in funding is for sustainable energy upgrades, specifically to help future-proof community buildings across Ireland. The closing date for applications is Friday, 18 July.

 Launched in 2022, a total budget of over €2.6m has been awarded by SE Systems to local community projects to date. The SE Systems Community Fund is an independent fund that helps non-profits, charities and voluntary organisations benefit from projects that improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, from solar panel systems and heat pump installation to insulation upgrades. Applications for the Community Fund must be submitted online via the application portal at www.sesystems.ie/community-fund-summer-call-application-form. For more information on eligibility, visit SE Systems website at www.sesystems.ie/communityfund.

John O’Leary, Co-Founder and CEO of SE Systems said: “One of the values that drives us as a business is to build greener, more resilient places to live and work. Our Community Fund is an enabler of this value, allowing us to build long term, viable solutions for vital local amenities and organisations that are fundamental to the social fabric of our towns and villages across Ireland.

“The SE Systems Community Fund is made possible through a unique funding mechanism developed in partnership with our commercial clients as part of their participation in our SEAI Community Energy Grant scheme applications. This collaborative approach allows us to redirect private sector investment into community-based energy projects, supporting grassroots organisations across Ireland in achieving their sustainable energy ambitions.”

Youenn Lowry, Co Founder and Managing Director of SE Systems added: “Applications are now open across the country, and we encourage community organisations who want to build a greener future to consider how financial support from SE Systems can help them secure a brighter and sustainable future for their local area.”

Among the projects that have received funding in the last three years include Cork Cancer Support, Irish Guide Dogs, Sixmilebridge GAA Club, Barretstown Kids Camp and Dalkey Sustainable Energy Community.

Tim O’Mahony, CEO of Irish Guide Dogs and a recent recipient of funding, said: “We were delighted to be a recipient of the SE System Community Fund. The funding provided has not just given us energy and environmental benefits, but has enhanced our facilities for staff, clients, and animals housed on-site. The cost savings we have made through working with SE Systems premises allows us to allocate funding to our core objectives – training more dogs and helping more people who are vision impaired and the families of children with autism.” 

Headquartered in Cork, with regional offices in Dublin, SE Systems serves clients across the country, delivering complete solutions aimed at retrofitting and refurbishing Ireland’s homes and building stock to higher standards of energy efficiency. SE Systems has completed over €500 million worth of energy projects, retrofitting over 13,000 homes and over 2,000 commercial and community Buildings. Over 650 million kWh of Energy has been saved, and 145,000 Tonnes of CO2 have been saved through SE Systems projects. 

*Terms and Conditions will apply.  

The 6 Biggest Tech Trends in Ireland

Ireland is no small player on the global tech stage, and it continues to punch well above its weight. In a way, it has become the digital frontier of Europe, adopting various innovative tech, from AI-driven analytics and immersive gaming to greener energy and top-of-the-line cybersecurity. Let’s take a look at the most exciting tech trends that are redefining Ireland’s technology landscape in 2025.

Mobile Gaming

Mobile-first has become the new default. Smartphone penetration continues to soar in Ireland, and the mobile gaming sector is riding high on that trend. 

The spotlight of this boom is on iGaming right now, with Irish gamers favouring mobile casinos and sportsbooks. Research shows that over 70% of adults play at least one game a year, and a significant portion of them do so online, via mobile. Slick interfaces with intuitive design keep attracting more audiences, while innovations like biometric logins, live betting, and AI-powered odds make the whole experience quick and seamless.

As many players look for more freedom and flexibility, the trend of exploring casinos outside Gamstop leads them to choose offshore platforms with better bonuses, fewer restrictions, and a broader range of games (source: casinos-not-on-gamstop.com).

AI Integration

More than just a buzzword, Ireland has adopted AI as a serious business backbone. Recent stats show that around 15% of enterprises and over 50% of large companies use AI. Recently, the public sector has joined in as well—government departments are already training civil servants in responsible AI usage, as part of the National AI Strategy.

The impact of this technology stretches through many verticals. From customer support to fraud detection, it’s an invaluable tool. In fact, for SMEs, using AI is a competitive differentiator. A survey carried out in 2024 showed that over 30% of Irish SMEs already use AI in some form, while close to half of them plan to expand—using it for sales forecasting, automation, and other methods of turning data into action.

Sustainable Energy

Sustainability has upgraded from being a side project to a proper strategy. Ireland is investing heavily in renewables, and with €7.4 billion saved in fossil fuel imports since 2000, it’s already paying off. Data-driven giants among tech companies are getting increasingly serious about sustainable energy. Cloud providers and data centres are under pressure for their energy consumption, which accounts for over 20% of Ireland’s total electricity use. Irish startups also have an opportunity to jump on the train of smart grid software, carbon analytics, and green innovations.

Cybersecurity

Cyber threats are now a reality rather than a hypothetical danger. In 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre handled 5,200 incident reports, with 721 confirmed cases. When it comes to business security, it’s a daily battle, with an average of 58 cyber incidents every year.

This surge in attacks has led to more investment in cybersecurity. 70% of organisations in Ireland plan to raise their budgets for security in 2025, covering everything from endpoint protection and data encryption to more advanced threat detection systems. More than just a trend, we are seeing cybersecurity become mission-critical for almost everyone.

Cloud Computing

In one year, the number of Irish companies and organisations hosting their infrastructure in the cloud has gone from 15% to 32%. Currently, an additional 33% are actively migrating, choosing cloud over legacy on-prem systems.

Many benefits are driving this rapid shift, from a growing reliance on remote collaboration tools to the need for flexibility and scalability. More agile startups gain the ability to compete with larger enterprises through reduced IT overheads and improved uptime. In 2025, 90% of IT leaders are expected to increase cloud investments, which puts the country in the fast lane of innovation.

VR & AR

Although first introduced in gaming, immersive technology has turned into something more. In Ireland, augmented and virtual reality are now being introduced into real estate, tourism, and even education. You can now take a virtual campus tour, attend an immersive training course, or view AR product previews as part of the mainstream experience.

Of course, gaming is still at the forefront here. VR casinos are also gaining ground, overlaying odds, stats, and live game data to make the activity more engaging and interactive. Shops are introducing gamification methods to deliver more impactful loyalty programmes. The popularity of these aspects is rising, and we can expect even more developers and investors to double down on immersive solutions in the times ahead.

Suretank nurtures Louth engineering talent with bursary programme

Suretank, the leading provider of modular and tank solutions for global infrastructure, pharma, marine and energy companies, has announced the expansion of its bursary programme to include two additional bursaries to support the next generation of engineering talent. The bursary programme has now been named The Tom Moody Programme for Engineering Talent, a reflection of the legacy left by Suretank’s General Manager, Tom Moody, who died earlier this year.

The expansion of the bursary programme marks Suretank’s 30th anniversary in business. It follows the company’s recent announcement that it is creating 80 new jobs in the Louth region, strengthening its commitment to investing in the community and driving further business growth. As demand for engineering talent in Ireland remains high, the programme will ensure Suretank continues to develop its own in-house engineering talent, serving a global customer base. The company’s engineering department boasts 30 engineers with expertise in mechanical, electrical and structural engineering.

The Tom Moody Programme for Engineering Talent will now become an annual partnership with Dundalk institute of Technology (DkIT). It is designed to support engineering students in their academic journey and includes the payment of college fees and expenses, along with paid work placements throughout the year in Suretank’s cutting-edge facilities in Louth. Additionally, recipients receive guided mentorship to ensure they develop the practical skills and expertise necessary to thrive in their careers.

This extension builds on the success of the company’s first bursary, launched in October last year, and reflects Suretank’s ongoing commitment to investing in the next generation of talent and supporting the local community. It comes in addition to Suretank’s apprenticeship programme, which last year saw one of its apprentices, Jamie Kirwan, named Apprentice of the Year Award (Electrical) at the Generation Apprenticeship Ireland Awards.

Applications are open to third-year students at Dundalk Institute of Technology studying for degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, and Architectural Technology. Click here for more information and to apply.

Dymphna Conlon, People & Organisation Development (P&OD) Manager said:

“At Suretank, we are deeply committed to empowering the next generation of engineers while giving back to the community that has supported us for the last 30 years. Expanding our bursary programme reinforces our long-term investment in the local region, providing students with a valuable opportunity to gain a head start in their careers.

“This initiative also honours the legacy of our colleague, Tom Moody, who was a strong believer in nurturing talent and his dedication and spirit left a lasting impact on all of us. By offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and the skills needed to succeed, these bursaries celebrate his memory in the most meaningful way—by supporting the future of engineering talent. More than just financial assistance, this is our ongoing commitment to people, progress, and the potential within our community.”

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

Digital Infrastructure Groups Merge to Strengthen Industry Representation

Today two key digital infrastructure organisations are merging to drive the growth and success of the digital infrastructure ecosystem in and from Ireland. Host in Ireland and Digital Infrastructure Ireland will join together under the Digital Infrastructure Ireland name, reflecting both the criticality of the industry and the need for urgent action by the Irish Government to advance the sector in Ireland.

Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Digitalisation and National Development Mr Jack Chambers TD will give the keynote address at the Digital Infrastructure Ireland Launch event next week which comes after five years of a de facto moratorium on the data centre industry and investment by-passing Ireland due to policy ambiguity and uncertainty.

The founder of Host in Ireland, Garry Connolly, said the industry needs one powerful voice to champion the digital infrastructure industry. “Ireland and the Irish digital infrastructure ecosystem have long been trusted global partners for designing, building, and supplying digital infrastructure. The industry needs a collective voice to represent the diverse sectors and communities that drive this critical industry. While the ecosystem has soared in recent years, the industry here at home faces serious challenges, including energy constraints, sustainability, and regulatory uncertainty.”

“It’s time to try something new. The CRU consultation should initiate a collaborative effort, bringing together government, agencies, and industry leaders to plot a course for Ireland and this trillion dollar global industry. Ireland’s energy challenges demand immediate action from top public and private experts to address grid constraints, solutions, and investments—not just in the medium and long-term, but immediately, as there are too many opportunities in limbo. Now more than ever, we must move beyond incremental steps and take giant leaps to embrace bold, forward-thinking policies. We need to build on Ireland’s 60+ year history with data by embracing a future that demands us to be creative, brave, and relentless.”

To guide its strategic direction and ensure a partner-driven vision remains at the forefront, Digital Infrastructure Ireland is establishing a Strategic Advisory Board. This board will be composed of industry leaders and professional experts who will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the organisation. The initial Advisory Board will be co-chaired by the long-established data centre industry veteran, Maurice Mortell, and Michelle Wallace, COO for Host in Ireland.

“The challenges we face as an industry in Ireland are getting serious and require a proactive and robust approach to advocacy and awareness. A lack of policy clarity is putting future investment at risk,” said Maurice Mortell, co-chair of the advisory board at Digital Infrastructure Ireland. “The Government must take an active role in enabling the next wave of cloud and AI-driven growth, or Ireland will be left behind as other markets seize these opportunities. Digital Infrastructure Ireland is committed to addressing these issues through collaboration, advocacy and proactive engagement with policymakers to ensure the industry can continue to thrive.”

About Digital Infrastructure Ireland

Digital Infrastructure Ireland is a global initiative dedicated to driving the growth and success of the digital infrastructure ecosystem both in and from Ireland.

As a partner-driven organisation, our community brings together companies with world-class expertise at every stage of the digital infrastructure lifecycle. From design and construction to operation and maintenance, our partners embody a spirit of “co-opetition” and collaboration that strengthens Ireland’s standing as a global leader in digital infrastructure.

Digital Infrastructure Ireland serves as a collective voice for the digital infrastructure ecosystem to ensure it remains a trusted partner for designing, building, and supplying digital infrastructure across Europe and beyond.