Is solar worth it in Ireland ?

Solar is fast becoming one of Irelands most popular choices for people looking to reduce their energy bills and also play their part in reducing damaging greenhouses gases. With its rise in popularity a lot of people find themselves asking the question Is solar worth it in Ireland ? Although our climate is not characterised by constant sunshine, solar energy can still provide great benefits to homeowners. It is a viable renewable energy solution that can help cut down electricity bills. It’s a great investment choice for any homeowner looking for a long-term, efficient solution. But just how well it works is a question that we get asked all the time.

The process of harnessing solar energy has been around for quite some time and as technology improves the ability to access this resource has become more widely available. Solar panels are installed on rooftops of homes or businesses where they act as receivers for sunlight. Ground mounted solar PV systems are also an alternative if there is limited roof space available or you have a large ground space you wish to optimise. These are then connected to an inverter that converts the DC energy generated by the panels into usable AC energy for your home. Excess power can be stored in batteries for later use or even sold back to the grid.

Investing in solar energy in Ireland has become the go to for Irish homeowners with the advances in technology and the introduction of grants and incentives by the government. Reducing your dependence on non-renewable, traditional energy sources, which are more expensive and consume larger amounts of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere is now achievable for Irish homes.

Lower energy bills with solar

Did you know that by installing a residential or commercial PV system, you can significantly reduce your monthly utility bill and save money in the long run? Check out our article Which appliances use the most power in my home . Did you also know that there are other advantages to having solar panels in Ireland? For one, installing PV solar panels can instantly increase the value of your property, which is great for potential buyers who are looking to lead a greener lifestyle. In addition, having a solar-powered home can greatly reduce your carbon footprint, which is not only good for you but also for the planet.

Solar panels can also give you a sense of energy independence, allowing you to be less reliant on the energy grid and potentially giving you full independence in the future. Excess solar energy generated can be transferred to the utility company in exchange for credits, which can be used to offset traditional energy usage. Plus, integrating your EV chargers into your solar panel system means that you can effectively enjoy free motoring for your electric vehicle.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Ireland ?

In recent years, there has been a significant reduction in the cost of manufacturing solar panels by up to an impressive 80%. Fortunately at Blackwell Energy we pass this cost reduction on to our consumers, making solar panels a more affordable option. There are several factors that can influence the price of solar panel installation. For instance, the number of panels needed for installation can significantly affect the overall installation cost.

With a range of government grants such as the SEAI Grant and 0% Vat being introduced its never been a better time to consider switching to solar panels. A typical family home with three bedrooms will require a system with ten solar panels. By taking advantage of SEAI grants, you can get a ten-panel solar system for approximately €7,600. While there is some uncertainty about the rising cost of energy, a ten-panel system can save an average family around €900 annually on their energy bills. Most solar panel systems pay for themselves within seven years.

It is also worth considering the durability of solar panel systems. Typically, solar panels come with a 30-year guarantee, which is a considerable time compared to standard warranty periods. Additionally, solar panels require little maintenance, which means you do not have to factor in running costs.

In addition, solar panel systems are crucial in protecting you financially in the long term. As you utilize a renewable and abundant energy source, you are not affected by the rising cost of wholesale fuel prices. Additionally, solar panel technology can add a premium to your property’s value, with a simple solar panel array yielding an increase of 4% or more in your home’s value.

Applying for a solar grant

The good news is that you may be eligible for a SEAI Solar Electricity Grant. To qualify for one of these grants, your property will need to have been constructed and occupied before 2011. However, there are some exceptions. If your property has previously benefited from SEAI assistance, you won’t be able to claim further grants.

If you qualify for an SEAI grant a typical installation can receive assistance worth as much as much as €2400. The SEAI grant provides grant assistance of €900 for every kwp, up to 2kwp. For every additional kwp and extra €300 in grant assistance is provided. Many PV systems use a battery to store surplus electricity. If you’re thinking of having a battery installed an additional grant of up to €600 can be accessed.

To get started, you’ll need to select a registered SEAI solar PV company. Next, make an application for a grant directly to SEAI. Once your application has been received, you should receive a formal grant offer within five working days. Any grant made will be valid for up to 8 months.

Once your solar PV panels have been installed, you’ll need to arrange for a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate to be completed. This, along with documentation from installation, then needs to be submitted to SEAI. A final application for payment can then be processed. Generally speaking, it will take no longer than 6 weeks for your grant payment to be issued.

Summary

So to answer the question Is solar worth it in Ireland ? the answer is most definitely Yes! With the introduction of a range of helpful incentives like the SEAI Grant and the introduction of 0% vat on solar products by the government its never been a better time to make the switch over to solar energy to power you home. Solar technology has moved on greatly in the last number of year allowing Irish homeowners to not only provide power to their homes but also the option to sell excess power back to the national grid. Reductions in equipments costs have also made this free power source a reality for homes across Ireland.