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Fine Gael TD Naoise Ó Muirí has said Ireland should move to make plug-in solar a practical option for households to help reduce energy costs, pointing to strong renewable electricity performance earlier this year.
Referencing the UK's move to allow plug-in solar for the first time, he argued that Ireland should follow suit so that renters, apartment owners and people without roof access can benefit.
He said: "CSO figures earlier this year showed that 86% of Ireland's electricity generation came from renewable sources last year on the 23rd February.
"The success of 23rd February demonstrates the enormous potential of renewable energy in Ireland. On that day, renewables supplied the vast majority of our electricity needs, showing what is possible when we continue investing in clean energy infrastructure.
"Our goal should be to make days like this the norm rather than the exception. That means accelerating investment in wind and solar energy, delivering offshore wind projects, and helping more households improve their energy efficiency.
"Solar power is already making a significant contribution. In 2025 1,101 GWh of electricity was generated by grid-scale solar farms, a 51% increase on 2024.
"That growth highlights how quickly clean energy technologies can help us reach our clean energy ambitions. The recent decision to allow plug-in solar panels across the UK shows how governments can empower households to generate their own electricity.
"Now people across the UK will be able to purchase plug in solar units in retailers on the high street and will allow people living in flats or rented homes without roof access to lower their bills by generating their own electricity.
"I understand that the Minister has asked for the development of standards that will allow the use of plug-in solar panels. We must act on this as quickly as possible so that renters, apartment owners and any homeowner who does not have access to their roof can begin to benefit.
"Ireland should move quickly to match that ambition and make plug-in solar a practical option for families here. Giving households more ways to produce and save energy would help cut bills, while also supporting the transition to a clean energy future."
