Solar energy is gaining popularity as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for homeowners in Ireland. With its abundant natural resources, Ireland has the potential to harness solar power to reduce electricity bills and decrease carbon emissions. To encourage the adoption of solar energy, the Irish government offers various grants and incentives to help homeowners offset the initial costs of installing solar panels. In this guide, we’ll explore the available Solar panel grants Ireland and incentives for solar panel installation in Ireland, empowering homeowners to unlock savings and embrace renewable energy.
1. SEAI Solar PV Grant
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers a grant for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on residential properties. As of 2022, the grant covers up to €3,000 per kWp (kilowatt peak) of installed capacity, with a maximum grant amount of €3,000 or 40% of the eligible costs, whichever is lower. Homeowners can use the grant to offset the upfront costs of purchasing and installing solar panels, making renewable energy more accessible and affordable.
2. Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA)
Under the Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) scheme, businesses in Ireland can claim 100% tax relief on the capital expenditure incurred for qualifying energy-efficient equipment, including solar panels. The ACA scheme allows businesses to accelerate the depreciation of their investment in solar energy systems, providing a financial incentive to invest in renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.
3. Home Renovation Incentive (HRI)
The Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) scheme allows homeowners in Ireland to claim tax relief on qualifying home improvements, including the installation of solar panels. Under the HRI scheme, homeowners can claim a tax credit of 13.5% of the qualifying expenditure, up to a maximum credit of €4,050. By participating in the HRI scheme, homeowners can offset some of the costs associated with upgrading their homes to be more energy-efficient.