Who Are the Best Solar Panel Companies in Ireland?

The list doesn’t just cover solar panels, but a full range of different environmental and renewable energy products that some companies might do together.

These include:

• PV Solar Panels
• Solar Thermal Panels
• Thermodynamic Solar Panels
• Biomass Boilers
• Heat pumps

The list includes services, names, phone numbers and email addresses of all the approved solar panel companies.

You can also find a solar panel company that will help you with any solar panel repairs or solar panel batteries or finding replacement solar panel components for your solar panels.

What Services Does a Solar Panel Company Provide?

What services a solar panel company in Ireland will provide will depend on the company, however most companies will provide the following services:

1. Assess Your Property
   All solar panel companies will assess your property before giving you a quote for your property. Since houses vary in size and shape, you might need an entirely different process for similar houses in your area.
2. Solar Panel Installation
   After the assessment and agreement on a quote, your chosen solar panels will be installed by the company. Usually, this won’t take any longer than a day, depending on your property size.
3. Post-Installation Testing
   After the installation, the company will often need to do some post-installation tests to double-check that everything has gone smoothly and there are no problems.

Do I Need To Use an SEAI Approved Solar Panal Company to Receive a Grant?

To receive a solar panel grant from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), you must use an SEAI-approved solar panel company for the installation.

Here's why:

• Eligibility Requirement: One of the core eligibility criteria for the SEAI solar PV grant is that the installation must be carried out by a solar PV company registered with the SEAI.
• Quality Assurance: SEAI registration ensures that the installer has committed to installing systems in compliance with the Domestic and Non-Domestic Technical Standards and Specification (DTSS), adheres to a professional Code of Practice, and has demonstrated tax compliance and insurance cover.
• Grant Application Process: As part of the grant application process, you will need to provide the details of the SEAI-registered company that will be carrying out the installation. The SEAI also requires documentation from the registered installer after the work is completed.
• Ineligible Installations: If you use a company or individual that is not registered with the SEAI, your solar panel installation will not be eligible for the SEAI grant.

How Should I Compare Solar Panel Companies?

With so many companies offering solar panel services, comparing the market can be difficult. You will need to get a good idea of what the different solar panel companies have to offer in terms of:

1. Services
2. Solar Panel Costs
3. Reviews

Beyond ensuring a solar panel company is SEAI approved to access grants, several other crucial factors should guide your choice to guarantee a smooth installation and a reliable, long-lasting system.

Consider the following aspects when evaluating potential installers:

• Accreditations and Certifications: Look beyond SEAI approval for additional certifications or quality standards. These demonstrate a commitment to industry best practices and may include certifications related to specific technologies, safety standards, or business management.
• Experience and Track Record: A company's history speaks volumes. Prioritise installers with a significant number of successful installations in Ireland. A proven track record suggests they have navigated local regulations, understand typical Irish weather conditions, and have a skilled team.
• Warranty Details (Panels, Inverter, Workmanship): Warranties offer crucial protection for your investment. Carefully review the warranties provided not only for the solar panels and inverter themselves but also for the quality of the installation work. Understand the duration, what is covered, and the process for making a claim.
• Customer References and Case Studies: Direct feedback from previous clients can provide invaluable insights into a company's service quality, installation process, and after-sales support.
• Local vs. National Companies: Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of both local and national companies. Local companies may offer more personalized service and have a deeper understanding of regional nuances, while national companies might have more resources and standardized processes.

If you have found some companies in your area and are still not sure which to choose, we recommend asking them the following questions to help you compare and make the right choice.

• ⛅ Questions to Ask When Comparing Solar Panel Companies
• How much energy will the PV system produce in a year?
• What is the total cost?
• What are the ongoing service and maintenance costs?
• What warranty is provided?
• Is my roof and electricity demand suitable for PV

How Do Solar Panel Companies Install Solar Panels?

As mentioned above, we recommend using an SEAI registered company for your solar panel installation. The process from start to finish should follow these steps:

1. Appoint Solar Panel Installer
   Firstly, you will need to get quotes from registered solar panel installer companies so you can find out how much you will be looking at paying in getting solar panels installed at your property.
2. Apply for Solar Panel Grant
   Next, you will need to fill in the solar panel grant application form online. This will include submitting your bank details, so you make sure they are correct before you continue. You should wait for approval on the grant amount before you begin installing the solar panels.
3. Solar Panel Installer Applies to ESB Networks
   Your solar panel installer will then apply to ESB Networks to confirm the connection to the electricity distribution network. This can take around 4 weeks.
4. Install Your Solar Panels
   After you’ve received approval and have heard back from ESB Networks, you can then start installing your solar panels.
5. Get the BER Rating
   After your solar panels have been installed, you will need to get your BER rating. Your BER rating is extremely important, so you must contact a BER rating assessor as soon as possible to make sure you get your property assessed. If you don’t, you might lose out on the solar panel grant.
6. Solar Panel Evidence Submitted
   Your solar panel installer will then send on the documentation you’ll need for getting the solar panels approved. They will also send a copy to the SEAI for them to have a look at before giving you the grant.
7. SEAI Process the Grant Claim
   Once all the documentation has been received, the SEAI will process your solar panel grant application and will decide whether you qualify. If you’re successful, the SEAI will pay the grant into your bank account, which usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks.