Ireland's independent solar comparison service
We empower Irish homeowners & businesses to confidently adopt renewable energy by handling the hard work of matching you with trusted installers who deliver top-tier quality solar at the sharpest price possible.
- Only SEAI-registered and certified installers
- Fully GDPR-compliant data handling
- No cost, no obligation for homeowners
SEAI Registered
All partner installers verified
Request installer quotes
Free, non-binding comparison
- GDPR compliant
SEAI-verified
installer network
Nationwide
Coverage across Ireland
Up to 3
quotes per enquiry
Transparent
comparison process
How the service works
A straightforward process from enquiry to installation
Step 01
Homeowner submits an enquiry
The homeowner fills in a short form with property details, energy needs, and preferred system type. This typically takes under two minutes.
Step 02
We match with suitable installers
The enquiry is matched with up to 3 SEAI-registered installers in the homeowner’s area. Installers are selected based on coverage, capacity, and certifications.
Step 03
Homeowner compares and decides
The homeowner reviews competing quotes and selects the installer that best fits. The chosen installer handles SEAI grant paperwork and ESB notification.
Typical residential economics
Indicative figures for a standard 4 kWp system — actual results vary by property
Investment overview
Typical 4 kWp system (installed)
€9,000 – €12,000
SEAI grant (max)
−€1,800
VAT saving (0% vs 23%)
−€1,000 – €1,500
Net investment
~€6,200 – €8,700
Estimated annual savings
Reduced electricity bill
€500 – €800/yr
Surplus exported to grid
€100 – €250/yr
Estimated annual saving
€600 – €1,000/yr
Payback timeline
Typical (average household)
5 Years on average
Optimised (battery / high self-use)
6 Years on average
Indicative figures only. Based on ESB Networks standard tariffs and SEAI published grant rates as of Q1 2026. Actual savings depend on system size, roof orientation, shading, electricity consumption patterns, and supplier export rates. We recommend obtaining a site-specific assessment from a qualified installer.
Key facts for the Irish solar market
Current incentives and regulations — actual outcomes vary by property
SEAI grant — up to €1,800
SEAI provides grants for residential solar based on system size, capped at €1,800. The property must be built before 2021 and work completed by a registered installer. Grant availability is subject to SEAI budget allocation.
0% VAT on residential solar
Since May 2023, Ireland applies 0% VAT on the supply and installation of solar panels for homes. On a typical system this can reduce the total cost by €1,000–€1,500 compared to the standard 23% rate.
Clean Export Guarantee
Homeowners can receive payment for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Rates vary by supplier, typically 15–24c per kWh. The first €200 per year in export income is tax-free. Actual export volumes depend on consumption patterns.
Typical Payback : 5 years on average
Payback depends on system size, electricity usage, and export volumes. A well-sized 4 kWp system may save €600–€1,000 per year. After payback, ongoing savings continue for the system's 25-year lifespan.
No planning permission required
Since 2022, rooftop solar panels are exempt from planning permission in Ireland. The installer handles the NC6 notification to ESB Networks and arranges the smart meter upgrade.
Battery storage available
Battery systems allow homeowners to store excess energy for evening use. High usage households will benefit all year round from battery storage. However, lower usage households may only realise the benefits from Autum until Spring each year. So not all properties will benefit equally from battery storage.
Homeowner experiences
Feedback from homeowners who used the service
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current SEAI grant for solar panels?
The maximum SEAI grant for residential solar panels is €1,800. The property must have been built before 2021, and the installation must be carried out by a SEAI-registered installer.
Is VAT applied to residential solar installations?
No, Since May 2023, Ireland applies 0% VAT on the supply and installation of solar panels for homes. On a typical system this can reduce the total cost by €1,000–€1,500 compared to the standard 23% rate.
Can homeowners sell electricity back to the grid?
Yes. Under the Clean Export Guarantee (in effect since 2022), all electricity suppliers must pay for surplus solar electricity exported to the grid. Current rates range from 15–32 cent per kWh depending on the supplier. The first €400 per year in export income is tax-free until 2028.
What is the typical payback period?
A standard 4 kWp system costs €7,300–€9,000 before incentives. After the SEAI grant and of course 0% VAT, the net cost is approximately €5,500–€7,000. With annual savings of €900–€1,300, with an average payback period is 5 years at current electricity prices.
Is planning permission required for rooftop solar?
Planning permission requirements for residential rooftop solar panels were substantially removed in October 2022 when the Irish government updated the planning regulations under S.I. 493 of 2022. To remain exempt, basic conditions still apply: panels must not project more than 15 cm above the roof surface, must stay below the ridge line, and the building must not be a protected structure.
How does Solar Experts.ie work?
We operate as an independent comparison service. Homeowners submit an enquiry and receive up to 3 quotes from SEAI-registered installers. The service is free and non-binding for the consumer.
How are installers selected?
We operate under very strict criteria, ensuring that all nominated solar installation companies are registered with the SEAI and adhere to Safe Electric standards. Each installation company must also be fully insured.
Can homeowners sell electricity back to the grid?
Yes, so that a household can benefit from unused exported electricity a smart meter must be installed (supplied by Electric Ireland). This calculates the amount of electricity sent back to the grid and will appear as a credit on your following bills.
Ready to get started?
Submit an enquiry to receive up to 3 quotes from SEAI-registered installers. The service is completely free and carries no obligation.
- GDPR compliant