As energy prices have recently seen a decrease, many homeowners in Ireland are still considering solar power as a long-term solution to potential future fluctuations. Installing solar panels, combined with battery storage, offers an eco-friendly energy source and a way to significantly reduce electricity bills. If you’ve been contemplating making the switch to solar energy, here’s what you need to know about the benefits, costs, and process of installing solar panels and battery storage in your home.
Why Solar Energy?
Ireland might not be known for its sunny weather, but the country still receives enough sunlight to make solar energy a worthwhile investment. Solar panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity that can power your home. Even on cloudy days, modern solar panels can still generate a significant amount of energy, making them a reliable source of power throughout the year.
The Financial Benefits
One of the primary reasons homeowners are installing solar panels is the potential for long-term savings. Although energy prices have recently decreased, the savings on electricity bills over time with solar energy can be substantial. Solar panels offer protection against potential future price increases. Additionally, the Irish government offers grants through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), which can help offset the initial costs of installation.
Battery storage further enhances these savings. A battery allows you to store excess energy generated during the day, which can then be used at night or during periods when your panels are not generating electricity. This means you can maximize your use of solar power and reduce your reliance on the grid, leading to even greater savings.
Environmental Impact
By installing solar panels, you are also contributing to a greener future. Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of power that reduces your carbon footprint. In Ireland, where the energy mix still includes a significant proportion of fossil fuels, switching to solar can make a meaningful impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy you generate is one less kWh that needs to be produced from non-renewable sources.
The Cost of Installation
The cost of installing a solar panel system in Ireland can vary depending on the size of the system, the quality of the panels, and whether you choose to include battery storage. On average, a 5kW solar panel system might cost between €8,000 and €10,000. Adding a battery storage system can increase the cost by another €4,000 to €6,000. However, with SEAI grants available, the cost can be reduced by up to €2,400 and the VAT is 0%.
The Installation Process
Installing solar panels and battery storage in your home typically involves several steps:
- Assessment and Planning: A solar installer will assess your home to determine its suitability for solar panels. Factors like roof orientation, shading, and available space will be considered.
- Grant Application: If you’re eligible, you’ll need to apply for the SEAI grant before installation begins. Your installer can often assist with this process.
- Installation: The installation process usually takes a few days. Solar panels are mounted on your roof, and the necessary electrical components, including the inverter and battery storage system, are installed.
- Connection to the Grid: Once installed, your system will need to be connected to the electricity grid. This allows you to export any excess energy you generate, potentially earning you additional savings through schemes like the Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS).
- Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance, usually just an occasional cleaning. Most systems come with a warranty of 20-25 years, ensuring long-term reliability.
Is Solar Right for You?
While solar panels and battery storage offer many benefits, they may not be suitable for every home. Factors such as roof space, orientation, and energy consumption habits play a role in determining the viability of a solar system. However, for many Irish homeowners, the combination of financial savings, environmental benefits, and energy independence makes solar a compelling option.
Renewable Energy Communities
If you live in an apartment, a rental property or a home that doesn’t suit the installation of solar or home batteries, you can also look into setting up or joining a renewable energy community where you could potentially own a small part of a community solar or wind farm and save money on your energy bill in that way. It’s not an easy process but if you are interested, you can find out more information about how to access funding and grants at SEAI and Leader Funding Programs. You can also look at an interesting energy cooperative in the UK for inspiration here.
Conclusion
If you’re considering making the switch to solar energy, now is a great time to explore your options. With government support, the possibility of future energy price fluctuations, and advancements in solar technology, investing in solar panels and battery storage can be a smart and sustainable decision for your home.
If you’re looking to install solar panels and/or battery storage in your home, don’t forget, you can post your job on www.Tradesmen.ie and get a number of quotes from rated solar specialists!
Cheers
Oliver Dempsey
Tradesmen.ie
20 August 2024
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1. Ask for phone numbers of references so that you can check them out
2. Check insurance of the tradesman where insurance is required
3. Hire a suitably qualified architect, building surveyor or building engineer if the job is anything to do with a new build, building renovation or extension
