Activ8 Solar Energies has installed a €1.17m rooftop solar panel system at Tayto Snacks' production facility in Ashbourne, Co. Meath, marking the food manufacturer's largest investment in renewables to date. Business Plus reported on the project, which is now fully commissioned and operational.

The 1,734-panel system is expected to generate approximately 667 MWh of electricity annually, supplying around 10% of the factory's power demand and reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 146 tonnes of CO₂ each year.

The installation uses Activ8's Duo N-Type bifacial solar panels, designed to maximise efficiency and reliability in Irish weather conditions. Planning and development began in December 2024, with onsite works commencing in March 2025.

The project received grant support from the SEAI under its Non-Domestic Microgeneration Grant scheme, aimed at accelerating commercial adoption of onsite renewable generation.

Ciaran Marron, CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies, said: "This project demonstrates what's possible when iconic Irish brands take decisive action on sustainability. On-site generation is increasingly becoming core infrastructure for manufacturers. We're proud to support Tayto Snacks in building long-term energy resilience while reducing carbon exposure."

John O'Connor, managing director at Tayto Snacks, said: "This investment marks a major step forward in strengthening our energy resilience while reducing our carbon footprint. Generating over 667 MWh of clean electricity onsite each year, this installation directly supports Ireland's climate ambitions and reinforces our long-term commitment to sustainable manufacturing."

Declan Meally, director of business at the SEAI, said: "Generating 10% of the site's energy from rooftop solar here at Tayto Snacks is a significant achievement, and SEAI is proud to support it. Activ8, working in partnership with SSE, has delivered a strong model that more businesses should follow."

Get the full details of the Tayto Snacks solar installation here.