Beat the Price Increases and Save Money on Electricity in 2026
Don't let rising electricity costs catch you out. Call Selectra today for expert advice on switching providers and finding the cheapest deal on electricity. Any cashback offers are not included.
29% discount
Variable Rate
35% discount
As of March 2026, you can apply for a solar panel grant from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) worth up to €1,800. While a phasedown was previously expected, the government has frozen the grant at 2025 levels for the duration of 2026 to help more households transition to renewable energy. This subsidy, combined with 0% VAT, makes this the most affordable year to date for solar in Ireland.
The solar panel grant, officially known as the Solar Electricity Grant, is a once-off funding incentive from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
It is designed to reduce the upfront cost of purchasing and installing PV solar panels on residential properties.
In 2026, the grant remains a "tiered" system, meaning the amount you receive is tied directly to the size of your installation.
By capturing solar energy, you not only benefit from the grant but also significantly reduce your reliance on an energy supplier.
To receive the solar panel grant in Ireland, you must meet specific eligibility criteria before you begin any work on your property:
If a member of your household is dependent on life-protecting electrical medical equipment (such as a dialysis machine or ventilator), you may qualify for a fully funded 2kWp solar system including a battery.
To qualify:
Contact your energy provider (Electric Ireland, Bord Gáis, etc.) directly to initiate this specific application.
In 2026, many homeowners are moving away from managing the grant themselves and using an SEAI-registered One-Stop Shop. This is particularly beneficial if you are combining solar with other upgrades like insulation or a heat pump.
Benefits of this route:
Do I Need Planning Permission?
In 2026, most residential solar installations in Ireland do not require planning permission, even if they cover the entire roof. Exceptions only apply to protected structures or homes within "Solar Safeguarding Zones" near airports.
The amount of solar panel grant Ireland residents can claim depends on the Kilowatt Peak (kWp) output of the system.
The government has confirmed that the 2025 rates will stay in place throughout 2026:
| System Capacity (kWp) | Grant Amount | Approx. No. of Panels |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kWp | €700 | 2-3 Panels |
| 2 kWp | €1,400 | 5-6 Panels |
| 3 kWp | €1,600 | 8-9 Panels |
| 4 kWp (Maximum Cap) | €1,800 | 10+ Panels |
Source: SEAI.ie | Last Updated: March 2026
While the grant covers a portion of the cost, many homeowners use the Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme to fund the balance.
In 2026, this government-backed scheme offers:
The application is a seven-step online process. You must receive your "Letter of Offer" before any panels are fitted.
No, there is currently no separate grant for battery storage. However, batteries are exempt from VAT, saving you approximately 13.5% to 23% compared to previous years.
Yes. Through the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG), you can earn between 18c–25c per kWh. In 2026, the first €400 of this income is tax-free.
The services and products mentioned on this website may only represent a small selection of the options available to you. Selectra encourages you to carry out your own research and seek advice if necessary before making any decisions. We may receive commission from selected partner providers on sales of some products and/or services mentioned within this website. Our website is free to use, and the commission we receive does not affect our opinion or the information we provide.
Looking for Lower Energy Bills in 2026?