Lease Land for Solar Farm in Northern Ireland
Earn £800-1,200 per acre annually by leasing your agricultural or unused land for solar farm development. Secure, long-term income with 25-40 year agreements.
Last updated: January 2026
£800-1,200
Per acre, per year
25-40
Year lease agreements
£0
Upfront cost to landowner
Example: 50-Acre Solar Farm
A 50-acre solar farm lease at £1,000/acre generates £50,000 annual income for the landowner. Over a 30-year lease, that's £1.5 million in total payments - with no investment or management required from you.
Is Your Land Suitable for a Solar Farm?
Ideal Land Characteristics
- 20+ acres minimum (50-100+ preferred)
- Relatively flat terrain or gentle south-facing slope
- Within 2km of grid connection (substation or 33kV line)
- No significant shading from trees or buildings
- Agricultural land (Grade 3b or lower preferred)
- Good road access for construction vehicles
Factors That May Affect Suitability
- AONB designation - More difficult planning
- Flood risk zones - May require mitigation
- High-grade agricultural land - Planning restrictions
- Heritage sites nearby - Visual impact concerns
- Limited grid capacity - May require network upgrades
How Solar Farm Land Leasing Works
Initial Assessment
A solar developer assesses your land's suitability, including size, location, grid connection proximity, and planning potential. This is typically free and non-binding.
Option Agreement
If suitable, you'll sign an option agreement giving the developer exclusive rights to pursue planning permission. You'll receive an annual option fee (typically £100-300/acre) during this period.
Planning & Grid Connection
The developer handles all planning applications and grid connection arrangements at their cost. This process typically takes 12-24 months.
Lease Agreement
Once planning is secured, you sign a 25-40 year lease agreement. Rent payments begin at construction start, typically £800-1,200 per acre annually with RPI increases.
Construction & Operation
Construction takes 6-12 months. Once operational, you receive regular lease payments while the developer handles all maintenance. At lease end, equipment is removed and land restored.
Solar Farm Development in Northern Ireland
Growing Demand
Northern Ireland has ambitious renewable energy targets, creating strong demand for solar farm sites. The NI Executive's Energy Strategy aims for 80% renewable electricity by 2030, driving developer interest in suitable land.
Grid Capacity
NIE Networks is investing in grid infrastructure to accommodate more renewable generation. Areas near existing substations and transmission lines are particularly attractive for solar farm development.
Planning Policy
NI planning policy generally supports renewable energy development on lower-grade agricultural land. Developers experienced with NI planning processes can navigate requirements efficiently.
Agricultural Benefits
Solar farms can complement farming operations. Sheep grazing under panels is common, and some landowners use the guaranteed income to invest in other farm improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I earn from leasing land for a solar farm in Northern Ireland?
Landowners in Northern Ireland can typically earn £800-1,200 per acre per year from solar farm leases. Rates depend on land quality, grid connection proximity, and lease terms. A 50-acre solar farm could generate £40,000-60,000 annually in lease payments over 25-40 year agreements.
What size of land is needed for a solar farm in Northern Ireland?
Most solar farm developers in Northern Ireland look for sites of at least 20-50 acres, though larger sites of 100+ acres are preferred for utility-scale projects. The land should be relatively flat, unshaded, and ideally within 2km of a suitable grid connection point.
What type of land is suitable for solar farms?
Ideal land for solar farms includes agricultural land (particularly Grade 3b or lower), brownfield sites, and former industrial land. South-facing slopes are preferred but not essential. Land near substations or 33kV power lines is particularly valuable due to reduced grid connection costs.
How long are solar farm land lease agreements?
Solar farm land leases in Northern Ireland typically run for 25-40 years, with options to extend. Most agreements include annual rent increases linked to RPI inflation. At the end of the lease, the developer removes all equipment and restores the land.
Can I still farm my land with a solar farm installation?
Yes, many modern solar farms allow 'agrivoltaics' - combining solar panels with sheep grazing or hay production. This dual-use approach can increase total land income. Sheep grazing under panels is increasingly common and helps with vegetation management.
Do I need planning permission for a solar farm in Northern Ireland?
Yes, solar farms require planning permission in Northern Ireland. Developers typically handle the planning application process and associated costs. Sites outside designated areas (AONB, Green Belt) have higher approval rates. The planning process usually takes 6-12 months.
Interested in leasing your land?
Contact us to discuss your land's potential for solar farm development. We can connect you with reputable developers active in Northern Ireland.
Get in TouchLease rates and terms vary based on site specifics and market conditions. The information provided is for general guidance only. We recommend seeking independent legal and financial advice before entering into any land lease agreements. Last updated: January 2026.