IT’S not pie in the sky anymore when it comes to farmers being energy self-sufficient . . . now it’s a case of looking at that great light in the sky!

From this week, farmers can now apply for an enhanced grant rate of 60% – with an investment ceiling of 90,000 – for solar energy projects under the new TAMS 3 programme.

TAMS 3 (Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme) was launched on Monday by Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, with the solar energy section open for applications since Wednesday of this week (Feb. 22).

According to Minister McConalogue, the solar scheme will be ring fenced having its own investment ceiling of €90,000 with the aim of reducing the dependence on fossil (oil/gas) by farmers.

“At a time of rising energy costs, I have prioritised the introduction of the solar investments which are now open for applications since Wednesday of this week.

“In addition to the higher grant rates, I have also increased the size of the available investments from 12kW to 62kW.

“The scheme will enable every farmer to generate their own power for their dwelling and holding and will help to achieve a more sustainable rural economy, assisting farmers in reducing energy costs on their holdings,” said the Minister.

Galway IFA Rural Development Representative Peter Gohery told the Farming Tribune that the new grant aid for solar investment on farms was a very positive step for farm families.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App

Download the Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App to access to Galway’s best-selling newspaper.

Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.

Or purchase the Digital Edition for PC, Mac or Laptop from Pagesuite  HERE.

Get the Connacht Tribune Live app
The Connacht Tribune Live app is the home of everything that is happening in Galway City and county. It’s completely FREE and features all the latest news, sport and information on what’s on in your area. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.