Dr James Ring
CEO, Failte Solar
With ambitious global expansion plans, a leading Irish solar distribution company is poised to revolutionise the renewable energy landscape under the leadership of its new CEO Dr James Ring.
Failte Solar, founded five years ago by its Chairperson, Abhilash Borana, has grown to become the largest player in the Irish solar energy market. According to Dr James Ring, who was appointed as CEO in June, the journey so far has been incredible, but there is a long way to go. “It has been great to see us take on the big players in the market and surpass them,” he says. “But the main goal now is staying ahead, especially as we expand our footprint globally.”
Global expansion with manufacturing focus
Its expansion plans are ambitious. The company has already established a presence in Italy and Spain, with the UK being the next target. “Over time, Ireland will actually be the smallest of our markets as we expand into larger European countries and beyond,” Dr Ring notes. “We’re also setting our sights on the US.”
A significant aspect of Failte Solar’s future strategy involves diversifying into manufacturing. The company is currently building two factories in India to produce solar panels, aiming to supply the growing market. “With the trade tariffs in place, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for Chinese products to enter the Indian market,” Dr Ring explains. “By manufacturing our panels locally, we can effectively service this massive market.”
We hope to be advocates for this industry and the broader environmental movement,
However, the road to global expansion is not without challenges, but the company is ready to tackle them. “The lack of skilled staff across all levels is driving wages up, which can erode profit margins,” Dr Ring says. “This is a roadblock we must navigate carefully as we grow.”
Quality and sustainability drive success
Failte Solar’s commitment to quality and innovation is also a driving force behind its success. The company focuses on offering high-quality products and advises clients on the best equipment to use, emphasising the importance of adopting cutting-edge technology. “The solar industry is evolving rapidly,” Dr Ring says. “The winners will be those who can adapt quickly and embrace new technologies, such as AI-driven systems, which are changing the landscape.”
The company hopes to not only grow its business but also to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition, which Dr Ring says is a crucial objective. “We hope to be advocates for this industry and the broader environmental movement,” he concludes. “Every step we take, whether in manufacturing or distribution, is aimed at contributing to global sustainability goals.”
