New regulations which will see the lifting of planning restrictions for solar panels is due to come into force this week.
The regulations, which were passed by the Joint Oireachtas Committee last week, means most planning restrictions for the installation of solar panels on homes and businesses across the country will be removed.
Waterford Fine Gael Senator, John Cummins, welcomed the move.
He told WLR News it will go towards helping people and businesses to reduce their energy bills and increase Ireland’s energy security.
He had been working on the changes over the past year.
"These regulations will remove a primary obstacle to the roll-out of solar energy development nationwide," Senator Cummins said.
He believes this move will allow individuals, communities, businesses, and farms to play their part in creating a future fueled by renewable energy.
The regulations will mean that it will be easier and less costly to install solar panels.
Grant support is available for homeowners through the SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland).
Senator Cummins is also working on TAMS (Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Schemes) which will open in January.
These will see farmers being able to access grants of up to 60% of the cost of installing solar panels, up to a maximum of €90,000.
"I know that that measure will be hugely welcomed by the agricultural sector," Senator Cummins said.
For more Waterford news and sport, click here.
