RES Targets Solar Surge with 1GW Pipeline

RES has revealed a pipeline of solar photovoltaic projects in the UK and Republic of Ireland in excess of 1GW.

The pipeline comprises a total of 23 new projects ranging from 12MW to 120MW, using the latest solar technology, RES stated.

The company said solar will be a “key enabler” of the UK’s net zero transition and the “new era” of solar being planned by RES is supported by the rapid fall in the cost of the technology in recent years.

The projects identified will use bifacial panels, technology that enables solar panels to absorb light on the front and back, boosting output and reducing costs.

In addition to the new projects RES has also secured planning consent for 230MW of solar capacity in Ireland, recently bolstered by Ballymoneen, a 105MW solar farm located in County Galway, which was approved in March.

RES has also just submitted plans for Derrill Water, a 42MW solar farm located in Devon, its first new planning application for a solar project in the UK since 2015.

RES solar projects head Karl O’Mullan said: “Large-scale solar can produce clean, low cost electricity for consumers and will play a vital role in supporting our transition to a net zero economy.

“As we see demand for new solar continue to grow, we’re making plans to expand our portfolio even further.

“We’re currently recruiting to support the significant work required to bring a portfolio of solar farms, capable of generating in excess of one gigawatt through the planning system.

“These new roles and the additional jobs created in the supply chain will also support our green recovery.”