Farming Energy Grants Ireland

Support for a sustainable future in Irish agriculture

Farming Energy Grants Ireland

Irish farmers can access a range of SEAI energy grants to help lower energy costs, boost efficiency, and reduce environmental impact.

Irish farmers can now access a range of SEAI energy grants to help lower energy costs, boost efficiency, and reduce environmental impact. Whether you manage a dairy farm, tillage operation, poultry unit or glasshouse, there are tailored supports available to help modernise your setup and future-proof your energy use.

Grants are open to sole traders, partnerships, and registered agricultural businesses operating in Ireland. You may qualify whether you’re a smallholder or managing a large-scale operation — as long as the project aims to improve energy performance and meets SEAI eligibility criteria.

Energy upgrades eligible for grant support typically include:

Solar PV Systems
Generate your own electricity, reduce reliance on the grid, and cut long-term energy bills.
LED Lighting Upgrades
Replace inefficient lighting in sheds, barns, and workshops with high-efficiency LED systems.
Variable Speed Drives (VSDs)
Control electric motors more efficiently — ideal for milking parlours, irrigation, and ventilation systems.
Heating Controls & Insulation
Improve comfort and cut waste in office areas, workshops, and food storage facilities.
Energy Monitoring Equipment
Track usage, detect inefficiencies, and plan smarter upgrades.

SEAI’s Non-Domestic Microgen Grant (NDMG) provides funding for solar PV systems up to 6kWp for farm buildings or business premises. This can:

Reduce electricity bills
Power equipment and lighting
Provide better energy independence
Qualify you for feed-in tariffs via export to the grid

This is particularly valuable for dairy farms or operations with consistent daytime energy use.

Up to €2,400 available for PV systems up to 6kWp, plus up to €1,800 for battery storage.

For larger-scale projects with significant energy savings potential, covering 30% to 50% of eligible costs.

Tax relief for energy-efficient equipment, including solar panels, motors, and heating systems.

In addition to SEAI, the Department of Agriculture offers grant aid for solar PV through the TAMS 3 Solar Capital Investment Scheme — with up to 60% funding for eligible farmers.

Reduce Energy Bills
Increase equipment lifespan
Lower your carbon footprint
Improve farm competitiveness
Qualify for future sustainability supports

Decide which upgrades suit your farm’s needs
Get quotes from SEAI-registered contractors
Apply via SEAI or DAFM depending on the scheme
Wait for approval before starting any work
Complete the upgrade and claim your grant

Need help? You can speak with your local Teagasc advisor or energy consultant to help plan your upgrade.

Farming Energy Grants – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install solar panels on my barn or shed roof?

Yes. Most solar PV grants are available for non-domestic buildings like barns, sheds, or milking parlours. The roof must be structurally sound and suitable for panel installation.

Can I combine SEAI and TAMS 3 grants?

No, you generally cannot combine SEAI and TAMS funding for the same project. You must choose one scheme depending on your setup and funding needs. TAMS may offer higher grant rates, especially for young trained farmers.

Do I need to be VAT registered?

Not always. Some SEAI grants are open to non-VAT registered applicants, but certain schemes (like ACA tax relief) may only benefit VAT-registered businesses.

Is wind generation covered under SEAI farm grants?

Not at this time. SEAI currently supports solar PV as the primary microgeneration option. Wind turbines may be explored through private investment or larger commercial schemes.