Michael O’Leary has installed one of the countrys largest solar systems on his Westmeath farm [Video]

RYANAIR CHIEF EXECUTIVE Michael O’Leary said State grants for solar panels should be fast-tracked to help farmers reduce their carbon footprint.

It comes as O’Leary revealed he has invested just over €140,000 installing solar panels and 90kW of batteries at his 2,000-acre Gigginstown estate outside Mullingar, Co Westmeath.

The 231-panel Swyft Energy system is one of the country’s biggest agri-solar installations, capable of generating up to 100,000kWh of electricity a year.

But the airline boss, 63, said the grant format should be sped up to help farmers who want to reduce their reliance on the national grid.

“Government grants are critical, particularly for smaller farmers,” he said.

“We’ve had to wait several months after installation to receive the grant – I can afford to do that – but I think the Government needs to do more to fast-forward that for smaller farmers, which I think would convert a lot more …