What Are The Ireland's Best Counties For Solar?

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Interest in renewable energy is rising across Ireland, with solar power becoming a practical option for homes and businesses. However, did you know that where you live can affect how much energy your solar panels generate? While solar panels work well across the country, some counties benefit more due to better sunlight and weather conditions. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the 5 top counties in Ireland for solar, explain why location matters, and highlight key factors to keep in mind when considering solar panels. Whether you live in Cork, Wexford, or Galway, this guide will help you decide if solar power is right for you.

What Are The Ireland's Best Counties For Solar?

There are numerous counties in Ireland suitable for solar panel installations, but in this post, we highlight Ireland's Best Counties for Solar. These include Cork, Wexford, Waterford, Galway, and Kilkenny. These counties stand out due to their favourable sunlight levels, supportive local policies, and available incentives. Whether it’s the coastal climate of Waterford or the solar-friendly environment in Kilkenny, each offers unique benefits that make solar a smart investment. With grants, energy buyback schemes, and efficient local installers, these counties are ideal for harnessing renewable energy and reducing long-term energy costs.

5 Top Ireland's Best Counties For Solar

Although solar panels can be installed anywhere in Ireland, some counties stand out due to higher sunlight levels and supportive local policies. Below, we’ll highlight counties that are ideal for solar panel installation and explain why they are well-suited for renewable energy projects.

County Cork

County Cork ranks highly for solar potential because of its favourable sunlight levels. Many homes and businesses in Cork have successfully installed solar panels and reported good energy savings. With the right equipment, even on cloudy days, panels in Cork can maintain a steady energy output.

County Wexford

Known for its relatively clear skies, County Wexford offers better conditions for generating solar energy. Local authorities actively promote solar adoption by providing information on available grants and offering support for renewable energy projects, making it easier for residents to switch to solar power.

County Waterford

Waterford benefits from a coastal climate that allows solar panels to generate electricity efficiently. Additionally, community-driven initiatives have encouraged solar adoption across the county, helping more homes and businesses move toward sustainable energy solutions.

County Galway

Galway strikes a balance between solar and wind energy, making it a strong contender for renewable energy investments. Local government schemes and renewable energy support groups have created a favourable environment for solar power installations, increasing interest among homeowners.

County Kilkenny

Kilkenny has made significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar power. The county also offers solar-friendly policies and information on available grants, making it easier for residents to explore clean energy options.

The best part is, if you’re planning to go solar in these or any other counties across Ireland, Going Solar is your top choice for installation, backed by our proven experience and expertise.

Why Location Matters for Solar Panel Efficiency in Ireland

When it comes to installing solar panels, location plays an important role in how much energy they can generate. Factors such as the amount of sunlight, weather patterns, and local climate directly affect solar efficiency across different counties. Below, we’ll explore how geography and weather impact solar power output in Ireland.

Geographic Variations in Solar Potential

Counties in the southern part of Ireland, like Cork and Wexford, generally receive more sunlight compared to those in the north. This makes them more suitable for solar power generation. Despite Ireland’s overall lower solar radiation compared to sunnier countries, panels can still produce a significant amount of energy when properly installed in areas with consistent sunlight.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Ireland’s weather is known for frequent cloud cover and rainfall, which can reduce the overall performance of solar panels. However, modern solar technology allows panels to generate energy even in low-light conditions. Seasonal changes also play a role, with longer daylight hours in summer boosting energy production, while shorter days in winter reduce output.

3 Factors to Consider When Choosing a County for Solar Panels

When deciding to install solar panels, understanding available financial support, energy savings potential, and local energy buyback options is crucial. Below, we explain how grants, cost recovery, and energy schemes can influence your decision.

Available Grants and Incentives

Irish homeowners can benefit from the SEAI solar PV grant, which significantly reduces the upfront cost of installing solar panels. This grant currently covers up to 25% of the installation cost, offering a maximum of €2,100 in 2024. However, it's important to note that this amount will decrease to €1,800 in early 2025. Counties that actively support solar adoption through local incentives may further improve affordability for homeowners.

Local Energy Providers and Buyback Schemes

Some counties have partnerships with energy providers that offer buyback schemes, allowing homeowners to sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid. These feed-in tariffs not only help reduce energy bills but also improve the financial benefits of going solar over time. Exploring local energy provider options can maximise savings in the long run.

Installation Costs and ROI

The cost of installing solar panels varies across counties, depending on local installer rates and conditions. On average, the payback period for solar panels in Ireland is between 5 to 6 years. Once you recover the initial investment, you can enjoy free electricity for the remainder of the panel’s lifespan, which is typically 25 years. By then, advancements in solar technology may offer better upgrade options, but you’ll already have benefitted from years of clean energy and reduced costs.

In conclusion!

Selecting the best county for solar panels in Ireland is crucial to maximising energy efficiency and financial savings. From sunny Cork to vibrant Dublin, each region offers unique opportunities for solar energy. Making an informed choice can help you unlock long-term benefits for your home or business.

 If you're unsure about the best location or need expert guidance, reach out to Going Solar for professional assistance. Our team can help you navigate incentives, find the ideal setup, and make your transition to solar energy seamless. Let’s power your future with clean, renewable energy!