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Northern Ireland's first large-scale solar farm has been connected to the private network of Belfast International airport, providing 27 per cent of the airport's annual electricity demand.
Lightsource Renewable Energy, a European solar energy company, funded, developed and connected the 4.83MW solar farm which will save 2,100 tonnes of carbon emissions each year and is also the first ground based solar power station to be completed in Ireland. Belfast International Airport buy the clean electricity produced through a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Lightsource chief executive Nick Boyle said: “We’re delighted to announce the connection of Ireland’s first large-scale solar farm. The Crookedstone Road solar farm represents another milestone for Lightsource and demonstrates the opportunities that solar energy presents for the whole island.
“Energy intensive businesses can now choose to procure solar electricity with no hassle, and Lightsource remains at the forefront of this exciting paradigm shift.”
The Crookedstone project respresents a £5 million investment into the local economy, including use of local contractors and services.
Belfast International Airport operations director Alan Whiteside said: “Belfast International Airport is pleased to be working with Lightsource on this unique project. We will become the core customer for Northern Ireland’s first solar farm via a private-wire connection.
“We’re breaking new ground with this exciting venture. Not only does it give us the opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint, but it also means reduced energy costs while improving the integrity of our supply.”
The Northern Ireland Executives’ target is to meet 40 per cent of energy demand from renewable sources by 2020.
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