The Ultimate Solar Panel Buyer’s Checklist (Ireland 2025)

Buying solar panels in Ireland in 2025 is easier than ever, but only if you know what to look for. From roof suitability to inverter type, grant eligibility, and installer credentials, this checklist covers everything you need to make a confident, cost-effective choice.

1. Check Your Roof Suitability

Before you compare quotes, assess whether your home is a good fit for solar:

  • Roof orientation: South-facing roofs capture the most sunlight, but east- and west-facing roofs can still perform well.
  • Angle and pitch: Between 30°–40° is ideal for Irish conditions.
  • Shading: Trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce output.
  • Condition: Ensure your roof is in good shape before installing panels.

If your roof isn’t suitable, consider ground-mounted solar as an alternative.

2. Calculate Your Energy Needs

Review your last 12 months of energy bills to understand your consumption patterns. A typical Irish household uses 3,500–5,000 kWh per year.

Match your solar system size (in kWp) to your needs. Too small and you’ll miss savings; too large and you may waste generation potential.

3. Compare Solar Panel Types

In 2025, most Irish homes use monocrystalline panels because they:

  • Offer the highest efficiency (20–23%)
  • Perform well in low light
  • Last 25 years or more

Look for reputable brands such as NEOSTAR, or TOPCon, all proven to withstand Irish weather.

4. Choose the Right Inverter

Your inverter is the heart of your solar system, converting DC electricity from panels into usable AC power.
Types to consider:

  • String Inverters: Cost-effective and reliable for simple roofs.
  • Microinverters: Great for shaded or complex roof layouts.
  • Hybrid Inverters: Allow battery storage integration from day one.

Top brands in Ireland include Solis, Growatt, Sigenergy, and Myenergi’s Libbi.

5. Decide on Battery Storage

Adding a solar battery helps you use more of your generated energy and reduces reliance on the grid.
Ask yourself:

  • Do you use more power in the evenings?
  • Do you want backup power during outages?
  • Do you plan to add an EV charger later?

If yes, a 5–10 kWh battery may be worth it.

6. Check Grant Eligibility

The SEAI Solar PV Grant offers up to €1,800 for homeowners installing solar panels.

Eligibility checklist:
✅ Home built and occupied before 2021
✅ System installed by SEAI-approved installer
✅ BER rating improvement possible
✅ Maximum system size of 6 kWp for the grant

7. Understand the Costs and Payback

As of 2025, solar panel installation in Ireland costs roughly:

  • €5,000–€9,000 for a standard 4–6 kWp system
  • Payback period: 6–9 years, depending on usage and export rates. With the Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS), you can earn money by exporting surplus power back to the grid.

8. Ask the Right Installer Questions

Before signing a contract, confirm:

  • Are they SEAI-registered and insured?
  • What warranties do panels, inverter, and installation come with?
  • Is the quotation breakdown clear and transparent?
  • Can they show you past Irish installations or reviews?

9. Plan for Maintenance and Monitoring

A good solar system is nearly maintenance-free, but check that:

  • The inverter app offers real-time monitoring
  • You can easily track generation and savings
  • There’s a maintenance plan if needed after installation

10. Think Long-Term

Future-proof your solar system for the next decade:

Final Thoughts: Buy Smart, Not Fast

The solar market in Ireland is thriving, but the best installations come from informed choices. Use this checklist to compare quotes, verify claims, and choose a trusted installer who delivers lasting performance — not just the lowest price.

🌞 Ready to reap the benefits of going solar?

Get your free solar quote today with WattCharger, Ireland’s trusted solar and EV charging experts. We’ll design a system that maximises your savings and minimises your carbon footprint.

 

Blog Author: Rowan Egan