How to Read a Solar Panel Quote in Ireland: Red Flags and What to Look For

Getting a solar panel quote is an exciting step towards lowering your energy bills. However, not all quotes are created equal. Many Irish homeowners accept the cheapest price without fully understanding what is included, which can lead to poor performance, hidden costs, or long term problems.

According to guidance from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), homeowners should always compare system quality, installer certification, and performance expectations rather than focusing on price alone.

In this guide, we explain how to read a solar quote properly, what good installers include, and the warning signs to avoid.

Why Understanding Your Quote Matters

A solar system is a long term investment that should perform for 25 years or more. A poorly specified system can result in:

• Lower than expected output
• Reduced export payments
• Limited upgrade options
• Voided warranties
• Higher maintenance costs

Knowing what to look for helps you protect your investment.

To understand sizing basics, see How Much Solar Power Do You Really Need in Ireland?.

What a Good Solar Quote Should Always Include

A professional solar quote should be clear, detailed, and easy to understand.

System Size (kWp)

This shows the total power capacity of the panels.

Example:
“6.5 kWp system using high efficiency modules”

Bigger is not always better. It must match your usage.

Learn more in Maximum Solar Panel Capacity for Irish Homes: What’s the Limit?.

We are here to help you make the most of Ireland's renewable energy opportunities. Get in touch today for your free energy assessment.  

Panel Brand and Model

Your quote should list:

• Manufacturer name
• Panel model number
• Efficiency rating
• Country of manufacture

If these are missing, ask why.

For long term performance, see Solar Panel Degradation: What to Expect Over 25 Years in Ireland.

Inverter and Battery Details

A proper quote will specify:

• Inverter brand and type
• Hybrid capability (if relevant)
• Battery model and capacity (if included)

This is essential for future upgrades.

Learn more in Home Battery Storage Explained: How It Works.

Estimated Annual Output (kWh)

Your installer should estimate how much electricity your system will produce per year based on:

• Roof orientation
• Shading
• Location
• Panel efficiency

This figure helps you calculate savings.

See East vs West vs South: The Best Roof Orientation for Solar in Ireland.

Installation Scope

A complete quote should explain:

• Mounting system
• Cabling
• Scaffolding
• Electrical upgrades
• Meter configuration
• Commissioning

If installation details are vague, be cautious.

Grant Handling

Many installers manage the SEAI solar grant process for you. Your quote should clearly state:

• Whether grant support is included
• Who handles paperwork
• When the grant is deducted

If this is unclear, ask for confirmation.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Some warning signs indicate poor quality or risky offers.

“Too Good to Be True” Pricing

If a quote is far cheaper than others, it may involve:

• Low grade panels
• Inexperienced installers
• Limited warranties
• Missing safety features

Cheap systems often cost more long term.

No Site Survey

Professional installers always assess your home first.

Avoid companies that quote without checking:

• Roof structure
• Shading
• Fuse board
• Cable routes
• Access

Without a survey, performance cannot be guaranteed.

Learn more in What Types of Properties Are Best Suited for Solar in Ireland?.

No Performance Guarantee

A quality installer should stand behind output estimates.

If there is no performance guidance, be cautious.

Vague Warranties

Your quote should clearly show:

• Panel product warranty
• Performance warranty
• Inverter warranty
• Workmanship warranty

If warranty terms are missing, request them in writing.

See Choosing Between 10, 15, and 20 Year Solar Panel Warranties.

High Pressure Sales Tactics

Be wary of:

• “Today only” discounts
• Countdown offers
• Requests for full payment upfront
• Pushy sales calls

Reputable installers allow time for decision making.

Understanding the Real Cost of Your System

A good quote shows a full breakdown, including:

• Equipment costs
• Installation
• Grant deduction
• VAT
• Final payable price

You should know exactly what you are paying for.

To understand returns, see What’s the ROI on Solar for Irish Commercial Properties?.

How to Compare Quotes Properly

When comparing installers, look beyond price.

Compare Like for Like

Make sure quotes match on:

• System size
• Panel quality
• Inverter type
• Battery capacity
• Warranties

Otherwise comparisons are meaningless.

Check Installer Credentials

Always confirm:

• SEAI registration
• Insurance cover
• Electrical certification
• Track record
• Customer reviews

Professional credentials protect you.

Ask About Future Upgrades

Your system should allow for:

• Battery installation
• EV charging
• Extra panels
• Heat pumps

See How to Add More Solar Panels to Your Existing System.

How Export Payments Affect Your Quote

Some quotes overestimate savings by assuming high export income.

Realistic quotes consider:

• Your daytime usage
• Battery storage
• Export rates
• Seasonal changes

Learn more in Solar Export Payments in Ireland: A Complete 2026 Guide to Earning from Excess Energy Generation.

Batteries and EV Charging in Quotes

If you plan to add batteries or EV charging, your quote should show compatibility.

For EV owners, see Can You Use Solar to Power Your EV at Home?.

For integration, see How to Integrate Your EV Charger with a Home Battery.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting Any Quote

Before signing, ask:

• Who installs the system directly?
• What happens if output is lower than expected?
• Who handles warranty claims?
• Is monitoring included?
• What support is provided after installation?

Clear answers indicate a trustworthy installer.

Why Professional System Design Matters

Solar is not just about installing panels. Proper design ensures:

• Maximum generation
• Safety compliance
• Long term reliability
• Future flexibility
• Best financial return

Cutting corners on design usually reduces performance.

Final Thoughts

A good solar quote should be transparent, detailed, and tailored to your home. It should clearly explain system size, equipment quality, warranties, and realistic savings.

Avoid vague pricing, pressure tactics, and incomplete specifications. Instead, choose an installer that focuses on long term performance and customer support.

WattCharger provides fully detailed, professionally designed solar quotes that prioritise quality, safety, and lifetime value.

If you would like a clear, no obligation assessment of your home, our team can prepare a transparent quote that shows exactly what you are getting and why it delivers long term results.