Who Is Eligible for the Solar Electricity Grant?

The Solar Electricity Grant is a scheme administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) that provides a once-off grant towards the purchase and installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for your home. To qualify for this grant, you must:

Be the owner of a home built and occupied before 2021

Use new materials and products that were not already covered under another grant scheme

Use a registered company from the SEAI’s registered list of companies

Have the electrical works completed by a Safe Electric Ireland electrician

Apply to ESB Networks to be connected to the electricity distribution system using the ESB Networks NC6 form (pdf). Your registered installer should do this for you before they fit the system

Provide a Declaration of Works signed by a registered installer on the SEAI Solar PV Approved Installer list

Have a Building Energy Rating (BER) carried out after the work is completed

1. Partner with Going Solar, Your SEAI Certified Expert

Begin by choosing Going Solar, a premier SEAI certified solar PV provider renowned for our expertise across Ireland. Our team of solar professionals is dedicated to designing and installing customised solar solutions that align with your energy needs and budget. Contact us for a free consultation and customised quote.

2. Apply for Your Grant Offer through SEAI

With our support, apply for your solar panel grant via the SEAI website. Our team will guide you through providing necessary details about your property, your custom solar solution, and confirming Going Solar as your installer of choice.Required documents include a recent electricity bill and proof of identification. Following your application, anticipate a grant offer letter from SEAI, which you should accept within 30 days to proceed.

3. Connection Approval through ESB Networks

Before installation, we will handle the application to ESB Networks for your system's connection to the electricity grid, ensuring a seamless integration. You will be notified upon approval, marking a pivotal step towards your solar installation.

4. Installation of Your Solar PV System

With grant and connection approvals in place, Going Solar schedules the installation at your convenience. Our certified professionals ensure a swift, clean installation process, adhering to the highest standards and demonstrating the functionality of your new solar system.

5. Complete a Post-Installation BER Assessment

Post-installation, securing a Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is essential to highlight your home's improved energy efficiency. Going Solar can recommend certified assessors to facilitate this step, ensuring compliance and maximising the benefits of your solar investment.

6. Submission of Installation Evidence to SEAI

Rest assured, Going Solar will submit all necessary documentation to SEAI, including the Declaration of Works, connection approval, and BER certificate. Our commitment is to manage these details, allowing you to enjoy the transition to solar energy without hassle.

How to Apply for the Solar Panel Grant? A Step-by-Step Guide

We at Going Solar make the process of applying for the Solar Panel Grant as easy as possible. Here’s how you can get started:

How Much Grant Can You Get for Solar Electricity?

The grant you can receive for solar electricity is determined by the size and type of your solar system. It’s important to understand that the grant is paid on a pro rata basis per kilowatt peak (kWp) of installed solar capacity.

A kWp is a unit that measures the maximum power output of a solar system under standard conditions. This means that the power output of your solar system is calculated based on optimal sunlight and temperature conditions.

The grant values for solar electricity are structured as follows:

For the first 2kWp of installed solar capacity, you can receive €800 per kWp.
For every additional kWp up to 4kWp, you can receive €250.
The total Solar PV grant is capped at €2100.

For example, if you install a 3kWp solar system, you can get a grant of €1850 (€800 x 2 + €250 x 1). If you install a 4kWp solar system, you can get the maximum grant of €2100 (€800 x 2 + €250 x 2).

At Going Solar, we’re here to help you navigate these details and make the most of the available grants. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or need further clarification.

Contact Going Solar

How Can You Speed Up the Grant Approval Process?

The grant approval process can typically be lengthy, taking up to 10 months. However, you can speed up this process by following these strategies:

Select a Reputable Installer

Choose an installer from the SEAI Solar PV Approved Installer list. This ensures the company meets SEAI’s standards for quality, safety, and customer service. Verify their reputation by checking reviews, references, and portfolio.

Apply Before Starting Work

Apply for the grant before initiating any work on your solar project. You must receive and accept a grant offer from SEAI within 30 days before proceeding with the installation. Ensure your application is accurate and complete, and includes all required documents.

Obtain ESB Networks Approval

Prior to installation, secure a connection approval from ESB Networks. Your installer should complete this using the ESB Networks NC6 form and inform you once it’s done. Keep a copy of the approval letter for your records.

Arrange a Post-Work BER

Once installation is complete, arrange a post-work Building Energy Rating (BER) for your home. A registered BER assessor will evaluate your home’s energy performance and issue a certificate. Arrange this as soon as possible and ensure the assessor publishes it on the SEAI database. Keep a copy of the certificate for your records.

Maintain Regular Communication

Stay in touch with your installer and SEAI throughout the process. Regularly confirm installation dates and details, and check your email for updates from SEAI. If you encounter any issues, contact your installer or SEAI promptly.

Transform Your Home with Solar Power and Save with SEAI Grants

Ready to reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint? Going Solar, your SEAI certified solar panel installation expert, is here to guide you through every step of the grant application process. With our expertise, applying for and receiving your SEAI grant is hassle-free, ensuring you get the maximum possible support towards your sustainable energy transition.

Don't miss this opportunity to make solar energy work for you. Contact Going Solar today to start your journey towards a brighter, greener future.

Contact Going Solar

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the Solar Electricity Grant?

The Solar Electricity Grant is a one-time grant provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to assist homeowners in installing Solar Photovoltaic panels.

Who is eligible for the Solar Electricity Grant?

All homeowners, including landlords, whose homes were built and occupied before 31st December 2020, are eligible for the grant.

How much is the domestic grant for solar panels in Ireland?

The grant pays €800 per kWp up to 2kWp, and an additional €250 for every kWp up to 4kWp. The total grant is capped at €2100.

When is the grant paid?

The grant is paid after the installation is complete, a post-works Building Energy Rating (BER) is arranged, and the evidence of works is submitted to SEAI.

What should I consider before applying for a domestic solar grant?

Before applying, consider whether your home needs insulation, if you’ll need planning permission, and whether you meet the eligibility criteria.

How do I apply for a residential solar grant?

To apply, find and appoint a registered SEAI solar PV company, apply to SEAI for a grant offer, have your installer apply to ESB Networks, install the solar PV panels, arrange a post-works BER, and have your company submit evidence of works to SEAI.