TAMS Grant for Solar Panels in Ireland

by Brian Barrett | Jun 5, 2025 | Agricultural Solar PV, News

What every farmomer needs to know.

A Mayo farmer’s dilemma

When Brian, (not our Brian) a dairy farmer just outside Ballina, opened his first electricity bill of the winter, he paused. The price had climbed again – no real surprise there. With new milking equipment, lighting, and water heating running longer hours, his monthly costs were biting hard into tight margins.

The TAMS award for solar panels was brought up by a neighbour. “You might get up to 60 percent back,” he said. Brian was sceptical, but curious. What was this grant? Would it suit his setup? Was it worth the paperwork?

If you are like Brian, this guide is for you. We will explain what the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) is, how it supports solar PV systems for farms, who qualifies, and where to start.

What is the TAMS grant

The Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme is a government initiative that helps Irish farmers invest in infrastructure to improve environmental sustainability, animal welfare and efficiency.

As part of TAMS 3, solar photovoltaic systems are now specifically supported, helping farms reduce energy costs, cut emissions and gain more control over electricity use.

TAMS is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and co-financed under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027.

How much can you claim under TAMS for solar

The current Solar Capital Investment Scheme under TAMS supports:

Up to 60 percent grant aid for eligible young trained farmers

40 percent standard grant for most other applicants

Maximum eligible investment of €90,000 per holding

Funding covers solar PV panels, inverter, battery storage, and mounting

Applies to both rooftop and ground-mounted systems

Who is eligible for the TAMS solar grant

You may qualify if you

Have a herd or flock number and are a registered farmer?

Turn in and submit an official application entry for Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS).

Intend to use the energy produced on your farm

Install the system on suitable agricultural buildings or land

Meet TAMS environmental and technical specifications

Applications must be submitted via the government’s official portal

Apply Throught AGfood.ie

What kind of solar PV systems are covered

TAMS supports a wide range of solar energy systems for farms, including

Three kilowatt to eleven kilowatt arrays

Larger battery-backed systems for high demand farms

Roof-mounted and ground-mounted panels

Installations that power lights, milking equipment, refrigeration or water heating

To qualify, the solar system must be used for on-farm operations — not residential-only use.

Our installation process

We take care of the entire installation process to make it as smooth and efficient as possible for homeowners.

Step 1

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Register

Ensure you are registered on AgFood.ie and eligible to apply

Step 2

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Plan your system

We assess your site, energy usage and design a compliant system

Step 3

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Submit your application

Include system layout, quotes, specifications and maps. You must apply within an open TAMS tranche

Step 4

Wait for approval

No installation work can begin before approval is received

Step 5

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Install and claim

Once approved, we install the system and provide documentation for your grant claim

Take Our Quiz To Receive A Free Quote

Benefits of solar PV on Irish farms

Reduce electricity bills year after year

Secure fixed energy costs for decades

Power farm operations with clean energy

Support Origin Green or Bord Bia sustainability goals

Reduce carbon footprint and improve BER

Offset diesel generator use in remote areas

Is the TAMS grant worth it

Yes. With up to 60 percent support, many Irish farms see returns in just a few years. Energy prices continue to rise, and solar offers long-term security.

At Solar West, we help you calculate realistic savings based on your actual usage and layout.

Frequently asked questions – about the TAMS Grant for Solar PV

How much can I claim under the TAMS solar PV grant

Can I install the solar system before I apply for TAMS

No. You must receive written approval before any installation work begins. Pre-approved systems may lose eligibility.

What farm equipment can solar PV support

Solar PV can power lighting, water heating, milking machines, refrigeration, gates, feed systems and more, depending on your energy use.

Does the grant include battery storage

Yes. The grant covers battery storage if it is included in the solar PV installation. This can help offset peak demand or night-time use.

Who installs the system and handles the paperwork

Solar West is the number one trusted solar provider based in Mayo. We design the system, complete the paperwork and support you from start to finish.

Authority sources

Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland

gov.ie – TAMS 3

Teagasc

AgFood.ie

Final thoughts from the west

Brian took the next step. With support from his son and the team at Solar West, he applied under TAMS, installed a six kilowatt rooftop system, and now powers his parlour, lights and equipment with clean, low-cost energy.

He started with doubt. He now tells his neighbours “You really should look into it.”

If you are a farmer in Mayo, Roscommon, Leitrim, Sligo or Galway, we are here to help you explore your options.

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