SEAI solar panel grant in Ireland (2025)
Planning to install solar panels at home? The SEAI grant can help reduce your upfront costs by up to €1,800 in 2025 — but the clock is ticking. With planned reductions each year and a full phase-out by 2029, now is the time to act.
Check your solar grant eligibility
What is the SEAI solar PV grant?
The SEAI Solar PV Grant is part of the Microgeneration Support Scheme, designed to support Irish homeowners in generating their own renewable electricity. Funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, this grant helps cover the cost of installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on residential properties.
In 2025, the maximum grant value is €1,800. This follows a reduction from €2,100 in 2024 — a 14% drop. The government has indicated it will continue reducing the grant by up to €300 each year, with plans to end the scheme entirely by 2029 as installation costs fall.
Who is eligible?
You may qualify for the grant if you meet the following criteria:
- You own your home (including private landlords)
- Your home was built and occupied before 31 December 2020
- Your MPRN has not previously received Solar PV grant funding
How much can you get?
The grant is calculated based on the size of your solar PV system and is capped at €1,800. Here’s a breakdown:
| System Size | Grant Value | Example Total |
|---|---|---|
| 2kWp | €700 per kWp | €1,400 |
| 3kWp | €700 per kWp (first 2) + €200 (1 extra) | €1,600 |
| 4kWp or more | Capped grant value | €1,800 |
Systems smaller than 4kWp may receive a proportionate grant amount. For example, a 2.5kWp system would typically be eligible for €1,500.
How to apply for the SEAI solar grant
Applying for the SEAI grant involves several key steps:
- Find a registered SEAI solar PV installation company
- Submit your online grant application and wait for the Letter of Offer
- Once approved, your installer applies to ESB Networks
- Have your solar PV system installed
- Book a post-works BER assessment
- Your installer submits all documentation to SEAI
- SEAI processes your claim and releases the grant
Important: You must complete the works and submit the Declaration of Works within 8 months of receiving grant approval, or your grant will expire.
Be careful with draft applications
A draft application is not the same as a submitted or approved one. The grant amount you’re eligible for is locked in at the time of receiving your official Letter of Offer. If you change your installer or fail to complete the application properly, you may have to cancel and restart — potentially losing out if grant rates have dropped.
Tips for a smooth grant process
- Only work with SEAI-registered companies
- Read the SEAI Solar PV Scheme terms and conditions
- Speak to your installer about timelines and paperwork
- Book a BER assessment early to avoid delays
Other SEAI energy upgrade options
If you're planning a larger home energy upgrade, SEAI also offers additional supports:
- One Stop Shop grants – for multiple upgrades and whole-home retrofits (BER B2 or better)
- Individual upgrades – manage your project yourself and choose contractors from SEAI’s register
- Fully funded upgrades – available to eligible welfare recipients for homes built before 2006
Don’t miss out – the grant is reducing each year
Grant capped at €1,800 in 2025
With reductions each year and the scheme ending in 2029, now is the time to apply.
The government has made it clear — solar grant funding won’t be around forever. Take advantage of the 2025 rates before they drop further. With installation costs coming down and long-term savings on your electricity bills, now is the perfect time to go solar.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the SEAI grant in 2025?
In 2025, the maximum grant value is €1,800. This is available for systems of 4kWp or more, with proportionate support for smaller installations.
Can I apply for the grant after installation?
No. You must apply and receive a Letter of Offer before installation begins. Post-installation applications will not be accepted.
How long do I have to complete the works?
You have 8 months from the date of your grant approval to complete the installation and submit the Declaration of Works to SEAI.
Can I switch installers after applying?
You can, but it requires cancelling and restarting your application. If grant values have changed, you’ll only qualify for the new amount.
Is the SEAI grant ending soon?
The grant is due to reduce by up to €300 each year and is expected to end completely by 2029. Early application is advised.
