Outside Ashbourne, Co Meath, farmer Thomas Sutton recently completed the process of leasing part of his land to a solar farm.

Production shift

Thomas and his family have farmed the land since the 1960s, initially growing a variety of crops, including potatoes, vegetables and cereals. In 1989, Thomas established his own vegetable shop, which he recently sold in 2021.

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Several years ago, Thomas was approached about the potential for solar development on his land due to the location and access to an ESB Networks substation. This letter prompted Thomas to start thinking about the future.

"It made total sense," he says. "With the size of the holding and where I was in life, it gave me a chance to secure a steady income for the years ahead. It was really a no-brainer."

The average timeline from site selection to construction start is approximately four to five years. For Thomas, construction started in January 2024 and the site was commissioned in June 2025.

"It was plain sailing from my point of view. Once the process started moving, ESB were very professional to deal with."

Leasing land for solar energy has provided Thomas with a dependable income stream, which he describes as invaluable at this stage of life. The lease runs for 25 to 30 years, offering long-term stability.

“The solar farm is now my pension,” he says. “It provides an income without me having to worry about weather, markets or inputs. It’s a secure arrangement."

A long-term investment

Looking back, Thomas is confident he made the right choice in going solar, with the decision giving him peace of mind about the future, not just him, but his four daughters too. The lease ensures the land remains in family hands, while delivering value.

So, what would Thomas say to other landowners who might be weighing up the idea of solar? His advice is simple: look at your own circumstances.

“Every situation is different,” he says. “But if the land is suitable and the opportunity is there, it’s well worth considering. For me, it’s been the right move.”

Opportunities ahead

As Ireland continues its transition to renewable energy, solar farms are set to become a more common feature in the Irish countryside. For farmers, they offer a chance to diversify income without giving up the land they value.

Thomas Sutton’s experience shows how the process works in practice: a long road, yes, but one that ends with security, continuity and a contribution to Ireland’s clean energy future.