Northern Ireland's first ever large-scale solar farm has been developed in Co Antrim.

Lightsource Renewable Energy established and connected the 4.83 Megawatts peak (MWp) solar farm on the Crookedstone Road.

It is now connected directly into the private network of Belfast International Airport, providing 27% of the airport's annual electricity demand.

The energy from the new solar farm will provide the airport with a source of renewable electricity, reduced energy costs and give a boost to their green credentials.

Nick Boyle, CEO at Lightsource, 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. The unique quality of solar power is that it is scalable and can be deployed very quickly and efficiently, as demonstrated by this project. This is the new world of electricity supply, which we are calling the solar revolution. Energy intensive businesses can now choose to procure solar electricity with no hassle, and Lightsource remains at the forefront of this exciting paradigm shift."

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Alan Whiteside, Operations Director at Belfast International Airport, 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."

By 2030, 27% of Ireland's energy will need to come from renewable sources, according to the Government.

(CD/MH)