Are solar panels worth it in Ireland?
Many people believe that for solar panels to work, you have to live in a sunny climate. When in fact, solar panels operate well in the Irish climate and can still lower your energy bills.
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Many people believe that solar panels would be a worthwhile investment in Spain rather than Ireland - contrary to popular belief, colder climates greatly benefit from solar systems.
How do solar panels work in Ireland?
In recent years, solar energy has gained significant traction as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional electricity sources.
However, the effectiveness of solar panels heavily relies on the availability of sunlight. In countries like Ireland, notorious for their cloudy and rainy weather, the question arises: Are solar panels truly worth the investment?
It is commonly thought that solar panels require large amounts of direct sunlight to function effectively. While solar panels do operate at optimal efficiency under direct sunlight, advancements in solar technology have improved their performance in low-light conditions so that they work more efficiently in colder temperatures.
Modern solar panels can still generate electricity even in cloudy weather, thanks to their ability to convert diffused sunlight into usable energy.
On top of this, energy storage can increase efficiency. Solar batteries are able to store excess energy generated during sunny days and use that energy at night or on cloudy days. This can help ensure a consistent power supply from your solar panels, regardless of the weather.
Do solar panels work in Irish winter?
As winter in Ireland can be dark and dreary, it is a myth that solar panels would be incompatible for an entire season of the year.
However, solar panels do not require direct sunlight to harness energy, meaning that even on darker and cloudy days you will be able to produce electricity from your pv system.
On occasion, parts of Ireland see snow and ice in winter which may lead to the assumption that solar panels would not work under these conditions. Clear layers of ice on top of a solar panel will not hinder electricity production.
Efficiency of solar systems in cold climates
Solar PV systems work well in Ireland because of their increased efficiency in cold weather.
When temperatures are too high, solar cells 'leak' energy due to the increased movement of electrons when heated. Whereas, cold temperatures lead to an increased voltage, which increases the efficiency of the panels.
For example, a solar cell plant in the Sahara would work less efficiently than a plant in Ireland, despite the fact that there is naturally more solar radiation in the desert.
The key to an efficient solar system is all about finding a balance between sun and temperature, making Ireland a good climate.
Government grants for solar energy
What is a kilowatt peak (kWp)?
A kWp is the unit of measurement for the output of a photovoltaic system.
This is the maximum rate that your solar panel can generate energy when in peak conditions.
For example, 4 kWp panel can produce up to 4,000 watts of power.
This means you could run a washing machine 8 times entirely with the power generated from your solar system.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants which help you install Solar panels on your home to generate renewable electricity.
The Solar PV Grant is available to all homeowners and private landlords, where the homes were built and occupied before 2021.
The grant covers €900 per kWp, up to 2kWp, then an additional €300 for additional kWp up to 4kWp. It is paid on a pro rata basis, meaning that for a 2.5kWp system the grant would have a total value of €1,950.
Read more about the SEAI Solar PV Grant
Long term financial gain
Over time, solar panel owners can save on electricity bills and even sell excess electricity back to the grid, generating additional income through feed-in tariffs. As energy prices continue to rise, the financial benefits of solar panels become increasingly appealing.
Contributing to a better environment
Beyond financial benefits, adopting solar panels in Ireland contributes to a more sustainable and greener future.
By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and conventional power sources, solar energy helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. For environmentally conscious individuals, the positive impact on the planet may outweigh any financial concerns.
In Ireland's case, embracing solar energy can significantly contribute to reducing the country's carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels.
The potential financial savings, coupled with the environmental benefits, make solar panels an attractive choice for residents and businesses looking to make a sustainable and forward-thinking investment. As solar technology continues to evolve, the future of solar energy in cloudy countries looks even brighter.
Find a solar panel supplier in Ireland
Finding a solar pv system supplier in Ireland has never been easier!
At Solarpanels.ie, you can easily request offers from several suppliers of solar PV panels. Fill in the short form and receive offers on solar systems.
Compare the offers and choose the one which suits you, whether you are most concerned with the facility, the supplier, or the price.
