Ireland: Solar industry could help create over 100,000 new jobs by 2030

The solar power industry will help create thousands of jobs per year in Ireland. The country's economy would also grow with the use of solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems.

Approximately 7,300 new jobs per year will be created in Ireland, according to a report by KPMG. The company has suggested that deploying solar technology across Ireland over the next 15 years will see fruitful results.

"Deploying solar PV technology to power Irish homes and businesses could support up to 7,300 new jobs per year between 2017 and 2030," the report said. The solar photovoltaic power system has the potential to become Ireland's cheapest electricity generating technology. It is far more cost effective than other renewable resources or conventional forms of generating power.

"The total policy support needed to develop a thriving Irish solar sector is estimated at €670 million over the 2017-2030 period, which is equivalent to a 1% increase in domestic retail electricity prices. The economic benefits far outweigh this cost. We know that for every €1 of policy support, the solar industry in Ireland would deliver €3 of Gross Value Added to the economy," researcher Mike Hayes said in a statement.

Harnessing solar energy would reduce Ireland's dependency on imported fuel. Since solar photovoltaic system can be built and put into operation quickly, it will also exempt the nation from a potential fine under UN targets on climate change, which is expected to be introduced at the COP21 conference in Paris in December. The targets imply countries to source 40% of electricity from renewable resources by 2020, the report said.

"Ireland is one of the last countries in Europe to support solar technology," David Maguire, chairperson of the Irish Solar Energy Association, said. The country does not currently have a policy mechanism to support harnessing solar power.

Meanwhile, Lower Austria announced earlier this month that 100% of its electricity needs were met through renewable sources, including solar energy. Austria's largest state said the government aimed at creating more green jobs, increasing from the current 36,000 to 50,000 by 2030. Ireland could definitely surpass Austria with a number of new green jobs projected at over 100,000 by 2030.

"We have a late mover advantage that gives us the opportunity to learn from the experience of other countries and deploy solar in a sustainable manner that delivers best value to the Irish citizen," Maguire added.