In part three of our home retrofitting series and how it effects your home insurance, we look at all things solar power with Kerry-owned One Stop Shop firm, Kingdom Installation.
If you’ve been following our series, you’ll know that retrofitting your home can cut bills, reduce your carbon footprint and make your home nicer to live in. We’ve covered how to tell if you need a retrofit and the differences between a shallow and deep approach. Now, we’re diving into one of Ireland’s most popular upgrades—solar power.
With rising electricity costs and generous government grants, installing solar panels seems like a no-brainer. But what do they cost? Do they really work in our climate? And where’s the best place to put them? We’ve got the answers—with help from Paul O’Sullivan, Quality, Health, Safety & Environmental Manager at Kingdom Installation.
Why solar power is taking off in Ireland
Solar panels have never been more popular. They help keep energy bills down, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and even let you sell excess power back to the grid.
They’re built to last too. Most come with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, but they don’t just stop working after that. Even after decades, they’ll still generate electricity, just at a reduced efficiency.
How do solar panels create energy?
In simple terms, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity, which powers your home’s appliances, lights, and heating.
What about Ireland’s grey skies? No problem.
“Yes, solar panels in Ireland still perform well during the cloudy or rainy months," explains Paul. "Of course, their efficiency does decrease in comparison to clear sunnier periods, but they continue generating power regardless.”
Installation: the need-to-knows
The prospect of producing your own energy is undoubtedly exciting. However, there are some practical considerations to think about before jumping in.
1. Upfront costs vs. long-term savings
The first question most homeowners have is: what will it cost me?
On average, installing solar panels can range from €6,000 to €12,000, depending on system size. But thanks to the government’s Solar PV Grant, provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) you can shave up to €2,400 off that. Plus, solar installations now come with zero VAT, making them even more affordable.
The savings? While the upfront cost might seem steep, a well-sized solar power system can cut €500 to €1,200 off your annual electricity bills, meaning it should pay for itself in 5 to 10 years.
2. Roof orientation and shading
The best location for installing a solar panel is a south-facing roof. Paul adds “They receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day, especially during the summer months. This typically results in the highest energy generation.
A south-facing roof allows panels to capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the year, particularly during peak sunlight hours around midday.”
However, east- or west-facing roofs can still work well—just with slightly lower energy output. It all comes down to when you use electricity most. “East-facing panels capture sunlight in the morning, which can be beneficial for homeowners who consume energy during the early part of the day. And west-facing panels capture sunlight in the afternoon and evening, making them useful for energy consumption later in the day. “
3. Roof unsuitable? Go ground-mounted
Not all roofs are solar-friendly. Structural issues, shade, or poor orientation can make installation tricky. But there is a decent alternative. In Ireland you can mount your PV panels on the ground, which according to Paul, means less restrictions and a few advantages around performance:
“Ground-mounted systems are good for maximising solar exposure, especially if they are tilted to the optimal angle for sunlight. They’re easier to access for cleaning and maintenance, which can improve the longevity and efficiency of the system.
And you can position the panels at the best angle and orientation (e.g., south-facing) for maximum solar gain, which may not be possible with roof mounting.”
4. Battery storage and maintenance
It’s also worth factoring in extra costs for maintenance, battery storage and inverter replacements. Adding a battery lets you store excess power for later use, reducing reliance on the grid. But they’re not cheap, typically setting you back €1,500 to €7,000.
The good news is that upkeep of panels is low key—just an occasional clean and a check-up every few years to keep things running smoothly. And these extras pay off over time. As Paul advises “The cost of battery storage and inverter replacement should be considered as part of your long-term energy strategy.”
“Additionally, any upfront costs can be offset by government incentives and the ongoing savings on your electricity bills.”
Solar power and your home insurance
Here’s something homeowners forget: using solar power can affect your home insurance.
First, let your insurer know once they’re installed to ensure you’re properly covered. Some providers may adjust your policy to protect against damage or theft of the panels, while others might even lower premiums thanks to reduced fire risk.
That’s where Quote Devil comes in. We specialise in finding home insurance deals that cover solar panels or a wider retrofit, without breaking the bank.
Is solar right for you?
For most homeowners, the answer is ‘yes’. With grants, long-term savings and lower carbon emissions, solar power is a smart investment.
But it’s not the only way to boost efficiency. Paul O’Sullivan sums it up perfectly:
“Solar panels, heat pumps, and insulation each provide distinct advantages and serve different purposes in making homes more energy-efficient and reducing carbon footprints.
The best choice often depends on your specific needs, goals, and property characteristics. Ideally you want a home that can incorporate them all.”
What’s next?
Stay tuned for our next installment—a guide to heat pumps. We’ll explore how they work, their benefits, and whether they’re the right fit for your home.
And don’t forget, if you’re making energy upgrades, make sure your home insurance keeps up too.
