![](https://mmo.aiircdn.com/286/626e361bccae0.jpg)
The energy generated by the solar farm will be sold under PPAs (purchase power agreements) supported by the Irish government via a CFD (Contract for Difference) mechanism valid until 2037.
Millvale forms part of a portfolio of three solar farms fully owned by Neoen. The other two – Hilltown (18 MWp, County Meath) and Hortland (25 MWp, County Kildare) – are currently under construction.
The farm in South Wicklow ( (15 MWp) will be fully operational by May 2022.
The construction of the solar farms has created around 100 jobs, with 11 local firms involved in the work. Sheep grazing will be used to control the growth of vegetation in the solar farms.
(1/2) We’ve got the power ! ⚡️
— NEOEN (@NEOEN_Energy) April 29, 2022
Today, we had the pleasure to welcome Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications & Minister for Transport, @EamonRyan, to celebrate the energisation of Ireland’s first grid connected ground-mounted solar farm. pic.twitter.com/b6DgqJNoTr
The second of the three solar farms is set to be commissioned in the coming weeks, with the third to follow in the third quarter of this year.
Together, they will generate enough electricity to power 12,700 homes and will prevent over 17,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.