With electricity prices continuing to rise and sustainability becoming more important than ever, solar panels in Ireland are no longer a luxury; they’re a smart investment. More Irish homeowners, businesses, and farms are turning to solar energy as a clean, efficient way to cut their electricity bills and reduce carbon emissions.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about solar PV installation in Ireland, including costs, SEAI grants, savings potential, and why companies like Zetta Solar are leading the way in renewable energy services.
1. Do Solar Panels Work in Ireland’s Climate?
Yes, solar panels work very well in Ireland, despite our famously cloudy skies. Modern solar PV systems generate electricity using daylight, not just direct sunlight. That means your system will still produce power on overcast days, making it ideal for Ireland’s weather. A well-sized home solar system in Ireland can generate between 2,500 and 3,500 kilowatt-hours annually, which is enough to offset a significant portion of your household electricity usage.
2. How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Ireland in 2025?
The cost of solar panels in Ireland depends on several factors, including the size of your system, whether you include a battery, and the type of roof or building structure. As of 2025, the average cost of a 3kW solar system ranges between €5,000 and €6,500 after SEAI grants are applied. A 4kW system usually costs between €6,500 and €8,000. For larger systems above 6kW, typically required for larger homes or commercial properties, prices can range from €9,000 to €12,000 or more. Despite the upfront investment, many systems pay for themselves in energy savings within 6 to 10 years.
3. Are There Solar Panel Grants Available in Ireland?
Yes, the SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) offers excellent solar panel grants under its Solar PV Scheme. Homeowners can receive €800 per kilowatt-peak (kWp) for the first 2kWp installed, and an additional €250 per kWp for the next 2kWp, up to a maximum of 4kWp. This means the total grant available can go up to €2,100. For example, a 4kW solar system will typically qualify for the full €2,100 grant. These supports significantly reduce the financial barrier to switching to renewable energy.
4. How Much Can I Save with Solar Energy?
The savings from installing solar panels in Ireland depend on your system size and how much of the electricity you generate is used in your home or business. On average, homeowners save between €400 and €700 per year on their electricity bills. Some may save even more, particularly if they have high energy usage or install a battery system. The more you consume the electricity produced by your solar panels rather than exporting it, the more value you extract from your investment.
5. Can I Sell Electricity Back to the Grid?
Yes. Thanks to the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) scheme, Irish homeowners with solar panels can now receive payment for any excess electricity they export to the national grid. In 2025, CEG rates typically range from €0.13 to €0.20 per kilowatt-hour, depending on your energy provider. This provides an additional revenue stream for solar PV system owners and enhances the overall return on investment by ensuring unused electricity doesn’t go to waste.
6. Should I Get a Battery with My Solar Panels?
Although a battery is not required for a solar PV system to function, it can be a very smart addition for many households. A solar battery stores excess electricity generated during the day, allowing you to use it during the evening or at night when solar production drops. This reduces your reliance on the grid and maximises your self-consumption. Batteries are especially beneficial if your household is unoccupied during daylight hours but consumes electricity in the evening.
7. Do I Need Planning Permission for Solar PV in Ireland?
Most homeowners in Ireland do not need planning permission to install solar panels, especially after planning laws were updated in 2022. Rooftop solar installations are generally exempt from planning requirements, which has helped increase uptake across the country. However, there are exceptions. If your property is a listed or protected structure or located in a conservation area, planning permission may still be required. Large-scale ground-mounted systems may also need approval. Always consult your installer or local authority before starting a project.
8. How Long Does Solar PV Installation Take?
The installation process for home solar panels in Ireland is usually fast and efficient. Most residential systems are installed in just one to two days. The exact duration depends on system size, roof accessibility, and weather conditions. Commercial and farm systems may take a bit longer due to increased scale or added components like battery storage. Your installer will also handle the connection to the national grid and any documentation required for grant applications or export payments.
9. Is My Roof Suitable for Solar Panels?
Most Irish homes are suitable for solar PV installation. Ideally, your roof should face south to capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. Southeast or southwest-facing roofs also perform well. The roof should be free of significant shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings, especially during peak daylight hours. A pitch of 30 to 40 degrees is optimal, though flatter or steeper roofs can also be adapted using mounting systems. Even east- and west-facing roofs can produce solid returns with the right panel configuration and inverter setup.
10. How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Today’s solar panels in Ireland are built to last. Most high-quality panels come with a performance warranty of 25 years, guaranteeing they’ll still generate a high percentage of their original capacity well into the future. Product warranties generally range from 10 to 15 years. Inverter warranties typically fall between 5 and 12 years, depending on the manufacturer. With minimal maintenance, most systems continue operating efficiently for 25 to 30 years, making them a reliable, long-term investment.
11. Can Businesses in Ireland Install Commercial Solar Panels?
Yes, many businesses across Ireland are now investing in commercial solar panel systems to reduce their operating costs and meet sustainability goals. A well-designed commercial solar PV installation in Ireland can significantly lower a business’s electricity bills, especially for energy-intensive sectors such as manufacturing, retail, hospitality, agriculture, and logistics.
The benefits go beyond savings. Commercial solar panels can help your business improve ESG performance, meet carbon reduction targets, and demonstrate environmental leadership to customers and stakeholders. Businesses can also avail of Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) tax benefits for renewable energy investments, further improving ROI.
Introducing Zetta: Expert Solar Installers in Ireland
When choosing the best solar installer in Ireland, it’s important to select a trusted partner who offers more than just panels and wiring. Zetta is one of Ireland’s leading renewable energy service providers, delivering an end-to-end experience that goes beyond installation.
Zetta is a multifaceted company offering four primary services. Their manufacturing services include on-site warranty repairs for energy product manufacturers, ensuring compliance with strict RAPEX (EU Rapid Alert System for dangerous products) standards. In the commercial sector, Zetta offers specialised maintenance for large-scale heating and ventilation systems, helping businesses reduce energy waste and comply with building regulations.
For homeowners, Zetta provides expert maintenance for heat pumps and ventilation systems, ensuring residential renewable energy systems run efficiently and safely. Most importantly, through their Zetta Solar division, the company offers professional solar PV installation services tailored to homes, farms, and commercial buildings. Their team handles everything from grant applications to post-installation support, focusing on long-term performance and savings.
Zetta is known for its innovative approach, customer-first philosophy, and commitment to improving the service landscape in Ireland’s energy sector. Whether you’re retrofitting a family home or upgrading a large property portfolio, Zetta Solar offers the technical know-how and support needed for a seamless solar experience.
Final Thoughts: Is Solar Worth It in Ireland?
Absolutely, solar panels in Ireland are more accessible, affordable, and effective than ever. With strong support from SEAI grants, the ability to sell excess energy back to the grid, and long-lasting components, a solar PV system is one of the smartest investments you can make in 2025.
And with trusted partners like Zetta Solar, the transition to renewable energy is smoother and more rewarding. From consultation to installation and ongoing maintenance, Zetta delivers dependable, future-focused service every step of the way.
If you’re ready to explore solar for your home or business, visit www.zetta.ie and book a free consultation today.
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