Is Solar Right for You? Tips and Benefits of Installing Solar Panels!

As energy costs continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are exploring the benefits of solar energy. Thousands of Irish households have already made the switch to renewable energy by tapping into the benefits of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to cut costs and lower their carbon footprint.

Here are some essential tips and considerations to help you decide if solar panels are right for your home.

Benefits of Installing Solar Panels

1. Cost Savings: The cost of a solar PV system will vary depending on factors such as the number and type of panels used, household demand, roof characteristics and whether you add a solar battery or not. While there can be a substantial upfront investment and the exact payback period can vary, most systems pay themselves back within 5 to 6 years through savings on electricity bills and grants.
2. Environmental Impact: By using solar energy, you decrease your reliance on fossil fuels, reducing your carbon footprint and promoting a cleaner environment.
3. Increased Home Value: Energy-efficient homes are very attractive to potential buyers. Installing solar panels generally boosts your home's Building Energy Rating (BER) and overall market value.
4. Energy Independence: While complete energy independence is not practical in Ireland due to our short winter days, installing solar panels can dramatically reduce a household’s reliance on imported electricity. Homeowners can achieve between 50 to 70% energy independence with solar panels alone and this rises higher with battery storage. This means less exposure to the unpredictable and rising costs of the big utilities companies.
5. Government Incentives: The Irish Government, via the SEAI, offers grants up to a maximum of €1,800 for solar PV systems, depending on how many panels you install. To avail of the grant, the house must have been built before 2021. Other terms and conditions apply as well.

Since 2023, there’s a zero VAT rate on the installation of solar panels in Ireland. In addition, homeowners can store any excess electricity they produce in batteries for later use or sell it back to the national grid through the Micro-generation support scheme.

Tips for Installing Solar Panels

1. Assess your Roof: Before you install solar panels, a professional will do a site survey of your roof to determine if your roof is suitable for solar panels. The roof should be in good condition and to be strong and sturdy enough to hold the panels in all kinds of weather.

South-facing roofs typically receive the most hours of sunlight but east or west-facing roofs can also work well and can be a good match for households using electricity in the morning and the evening.

It’s important to note that solar panels will still generate electricity even on cloudy days but they'll produce less than they would do on a sunny day under direct sunlight.

Also while larger roofs will produce more solar power than smaller roofs ( as they can hold more panels), homeowners with a small amount of space can still produce a significant portion of the household’s energy needs with solar.

2. Research Reliable Installers: SEAI has a list of reputable installers who are grant-approved. The installer will carry out a survey of your roof and assess how much daylight your panels will get throughout the year and give you an estimate of performance, based on all the factors.

3. Understand the Costs: Get multiple quotes to understand the total cost of the installation, including equipment, labour and any additional fees.

4. Consider your Energy Needs: Evaluate your household’s energy consumption to determine the size and number of panels you will need.

5. Plan for Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance but it’s essential to keep them clean and monitor their performance regularly.

Is Solar Right for You?

While solar panels offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider your unique circumstances. Think about your home’s energy consumption, your budget for installation and long-term goals.

If you’re looking to invest in solar panels but are concerned about the up-front costs, a Green Loan from First Tech could be the perfect solution. See the benefits below:

1. Competitive Interest Rate: First Tech’s Green Loan comes with a competitive rate of just 9% APR*.
2. Easy Repayment Options that fit your budget, making it easier to manage your finances.
3. Fast Approval Process: Our quick application process means you can start planning your trip without delay.
4. Loan Protection Insurance at no extra cost.

Get Started Today!

Let us help you to finance your solar panel installation. Call us today on 01 642 7900.

*Lending Criteria Terms & Conditions Apply.