Client: Primus POD
Sector: High Spec Manufacturing
Location: Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
System Size: 129.6kW (288 Solar Panels)
Installation Time: 8 Days. Zero Disruption to Business Operations
Operational Disruption: None
Annual Savings: €30,000-€40,000
Projected Payback: 2 Years 5 Months
Powering High Spec Manufacturing with a Low Cost Commercial Solar Project in Ireland
A high spec manufacturing facility in County Kilkenny, Ireland has strengthened its competitive edge while advancing sustainability by installing a custom designed Commercial Solar PV system from SOLARspan.
The company specialises in the design and fabrication of high performance cleanroom environments for the pharmaceutical, med tech, and food industries. These sectors demand uncompromising standards of stability, reliability, and environmental control making energy both mission critical and costly and making solar the solution for
The Challenge
The Primus POD facility was faced with rising energy prices which threatened profitability combined with a growing focus on sustainability and requirements from customer clients for evidence of low carbon production to maintain contracts. The company saw the need to reduce its carbon footprint without affecting the quality or continuity of its operations.
The Solution
SOLARspan installed a 130 KW solar array across the rooftop. The 288-panel commercial Solar PV system was tailored to the company’s daily energy usage profile and utilised the best available roof space while leaving room for future expansion. To ensure long-term durability and performance, the system was installed using Van Der Valk Solar Systems mounting system, chosen for their proven wind load resistance, roof-friendly design, and flexibility for future system expansion on commercial and industrial buildings. The installation was completed in just 8 days with parts of the installation scheduled outside of core hours to ensure no interruption to business activity.
SOLARspan managed the complete project including the installation of Safety line and skylight protection as well as liaising with ESB Networks to ensure a seamless go live.
By generating clean, on site electricity during peak hours, the solar system offsets a significant portion of the facility’s demand. This is especially valuable during high energy manufacturing processes and lengthy production runs.
The Results
- Projected Annual Savings: €30,000-€40,000
- Estimated Payback Period: Less than 3 years
- Post-Payback Energy Cost: Significantly reduced for the next 20+ years
- CO₂ Reduction: Approx 40 Tonnes per year
- No Downtime: Factory operations continued without compromise
The company also qualified for the SEAI Non-Domestic Microgen Grant of €28,400, which covered a portion of the installation cost, and is claiming Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) for immediate tax benefits, boosting the return on investment from day one.
Why Commercial Solar PV Makes Sense for High Spec Manufacturing in Ireland
High spec manufacturing facilities in Ireland face unique energy challenges due to continuous production cycles, strict environmental controls, and rising electricity costs. Commercial solar PV allows manufacturers to stabilise energy expenses while meeting sustainability requirements increasingly demanded by global clients and regulators.
By generating electricity on site, manufacturers reduce exposure to volatile energy prices and improve long-term cost certainty. Solar PV systems also support ESG reporting, carbon reduction targets, and supply chain compliance, all without compromising production output. For companies operating cleanroom and precision environments, solar provides a reliable and proven route to lower operational costs while strengthening competitive positioning in both Irish and international markets.
Looking Ahead
With monitoring tools now live with the FusionSolar App, management can track real time generation and savings, validating ROI with clear, measurable data. Operations can shift load to take advantage of low-cost electricity and look at further enhancements to the system in the future.
This solar installation marks a pivotal move toward clean energy, supporting the company’s long term vision of lowering emissions and meeting sustainability expectations across its supply chain
“Our goal was to cut energy costs while proving our commitment to sustainability. With SOLARspan’s custom Solar PV system, we’ve achieved both lowering bills and reducing our carbon footprint without disrupting operations.”
- Adrian Madden, Facilities Manager at Primus POD
Commercial Solar PV,
For Businesses In Ireland
From Donegal to Cork, and Galway to Dublin, we deliver Commercial Solar Systems across Ireland, helping local enterprises thrive through smarter energy choices.
- Agricultural Enterprises & Co-ops
- Factories, Warehouses & Manufacturing
- Offices, Hotels & Hospitality Venues
- Retail, Logistics & Commercial Facilities
- Sports Clubs & Schools
