Powered by the Sun
At Ethical Tours, we believe that the best tourism experiences should leave a light footprint. That is why we have built sustainability into the heart of our business, from the way we travel to the way we power our base in Ballymahon.
We are proud to say that our operation is fully off grid, supported by our 42-panel solar system and 50 kWh battery storage. Together, they allow us to capture clean energy during the day, store it for later use, and run our business in a more self-sufficient and environmentally responsible way.
A cleaner way to operate
Our solar system helps power the day-to-day running of the business, while our battery storage ensures that energy is available when we need it most. That means we can continue operating without relying on the grid, while making the most of the renewable energy we generate on site.
This approach is not just about reducing emissions. It also gives us greater control, better resilience, and a smarter way to support our growing tourism offer. From bookings and administration to transport and logistics, everything is designed to work as efficiently as possible.
Sustainable transport in action
Our electric van plays a key role in how we operate. It allows us to transport bikes and support our tours in a cleaner, quieter way, while fitting naturally with our wider sustainability goals. Because the van is powered as part of an off-grid solar system, it reflects the same values that shape the rest of the business.
That matters when we are moving bikes to places like Maynooth, supporting Greenway hire, or working with tour operators who want to include cycling in their packages. We want to make it easy for visitors to enjoy the experience while knowing the business behind it is doing the right thing.
Why it matters
More and more visitors are looking for tourism experiences that are authentic, memorable, and responsible. Sustainable travel is no longer a niche interest; it is becoming a major part of how people choose where to go and who to book with.
For us, going off grid is a practical expression of that shift. It shows that a tourism business can be ambitious, modern, and environmentally conscious at the same time. By using solar energy and battery storage, we are reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and creating a model that is better for the places we work in.
Built for the future
As we continue to grow, our commitment to sustainable tourism will remain unchanged. Our off-grid solar system, battery storage, and electric transport are all part of a long-term approach to building a business that is resilient, responsible, and ready for the future.
Whether it is a bike hire day out, a guided Greenway tour, or a larger group experience, we want every journey to reflect the same principle: travel well, and tread lightly.