Certa Launches Solar-as-a-Service in Ireland, Secures First Clients

BREAKING: Certa has officially launched its innovative Solar-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, signing its first two customers in an ambitious plan to deliver €50 million worth of solar energy projects across Ireland. This initiative aims to provide 50 megawatts (MW) of solar PV power, generating approximately 50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually—enough to power around 12,000 Irish homes each year.

This urgent development was announced earlier today as Certa, through its subsidiary Alternative Energy Ireland (AEI), begins managing the installation and ongoing maintenance of solar projects, ensuring they achieve 90% of their expected energy output annually with real-time monitoring.

The first major customer, Jabil, a key player in healthcare product development, is set to install 3,000 rooftop solar PV panels at its facility in Bray, Co. Wicklow. Valued at €1.2 million, this 1.5 MW solar system will generate 1.3 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of renewable energy each year for the next 25 years, significantly reducing carbon emissions by 360 tonnes annually.

Additionally, Lindab, a leading supplier of energy-efficient building solutions, has committed to a €200,000 deal, installing 400 solar PV panels across three sites in Dublin. This 178-kilowatt (kWh) solar system is projected to produce 165,000 kWh of solar power each year, cutting carbon emissions by 44 tonnes.

This launch comes as Ireland strives to meet its climate goals of generating 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieving a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2018 levels.

Orla Stevens, managing director of Certa Ireland, emphasized the significance of the SaaS model: “Our SaaS model is designed to help businesses adopt solar energy and to overcome the barriers to adoption, including limited access to capital for the initial high installation costs.”

Steven Bray, managing director of AEI, added: “Solar-as-a-Service makes it easy for businesses to harness solar energy without the burden of purchasing and maintaining the technology. It offers a single monthly fee and a service level agreement, creating a win-win for Irish businesses with benefits like significant energy savings and reduced carbon footprints.”

Certa, headquartered in Portlaoise, Co. Laois, employs over 370 people nationwide and operates under the umbrella of DCC plc.

As this story develops, businesses across Ireland are encouraged to consider how Certa’s SaaS can transform their energy consumption and contribute to a greener future. Stay tuned for more updates on this significant move towards renewable energy in Ireland.