Abhaile Solar is making a real difference
The team at Abhaile Solar, which is leading the way in the installation of solar energy across the West of Ireland.
A Galway-based, family-run solar company is demonstrating how local enterprise can deliver far more than energy savings.
Abhaile Solar continues to support communities, schools, and GAA clubs across the region.
Founded by electrician Donal Gibbons, originally from Shrule in South Mayo, and co-owner Juliana Erkkonen, Abhaile Solar is an SEAI-registered company, combining technical excellence with a genuinely human, community-oriented approach. The business delivers domestic and commercial solar PV systems across Mayo, Galway and the west, while remaining firmly rooted in local values.
“At its core, Abhaile Solar is a family business,” says Juliana. “Our clients deal directly with us as owners, not call centres or middlemen. That personal connection matters, especially when people are making long-term decisions about their homes or businesses.”
That local-first mindset extends beyond solar. Abhaile Solar actively supports schools and GAA clubs in the area, most recently through the sponsorship of team jerseys for Headford NS and Shrule/Glencorrib GAA. Both co-owners are also involved in local life through music, adding to their strong connection with the communities they serve.
“GAA clubs are at the heart of communities across Mayo, Galway and the west,” says Donal. “They’re about far more than sport. They bring people together, they give young people confidence and discipline, and they keep communities connected. Supporting local clubs and schools is something we genuinely believe in.”
Abhaile Solar’s story is also one of personal journey. Originally from Finland, Juliana moved to Galway and built her life and business here, bringing an international perspective to a traditionally male-dominated sector. As a female co-director, she is keen to highlight the importance of transparency, trust, and long-term thinking in renewable energy.
“When I entered the industry, there weren’t many women in leadership roles within solar companies,” Juliana says. “My Finnish background places a strong value on transparency and honesty, and that has shaped how we do business, clear communication, fair pricing, and real support for customers.”
Built on Donal’s 30 years of electrical experience and the shared leadership of Donal and Juliana, Abhaile Solar has developed a strong local reputation for reliability, professionalism, and aftercare. This has been independently recognised through the AIBF’s Business All-Star accreditation, which involves a rigorous assessment of business standards and customer service.
Being awarded the Business All-Star marque provides Abhaile Solar with increased visibility and acts as a trusted stamp of credibility for customers.
“For us, the recognition is about reassurance,” says Donal. “It shows customers they’re dealing with a company that’s been independently vetted at a national level and trusted, and it gives our team real pride in what we’re building.”
As energy costs and sustainability continue to be key concerns for households and businesses, Abhaile Solar remains focused on delivering high-quality solar solutions while staying actively involved in the communities it serves.
“We’re proud to be a community-focused business,” Donal adds. “If our work allows us to support local clubs, schools, and community initiatives along the way, then that’s something we’re very proud of.”
