Solar Panels in Carrigaline, Co. Cork
Carrigaline is one of the larger towns in Co. Cork with a population of 18,239. With 1,380+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,628 kWh annually — covering 86% of average household electricity use. After the SEAI grant of up to €1,800 and 0% VAT, the net cost is €3,200–€6,200 with payback in 4–6 years.
How much solar energy can you generate in Carrigaline?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Cork City
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Cork. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Solar Power in Carrigaline, Co. Cork
Carrigaline is a large town in Co. Cork with a population of 18,239 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Cork City (10.9 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Carrigaline is P43 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Cork ranks #6 in Ireland for solar yield, making Carrigaline an excellent location for solar panels.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Carrigaline Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Carrigaline can save an estimated €1088+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,628 kWh annually.
SEAI Grant — Up to €1,800
Get up to €1,800 back from SEAI. The grant is available for homes built before 2021. No means testing — apply online at seai.ie.
0% VAT on Installation
Residential solar installations are zero-rated for VAT since May 2023, saving approximately €1,000 on a typical system.
Earn from Excess Energy
Sell surplus electricity at 15-25c/kWh through the Microgeneration Support Scheme. The first €400/year is tax-free.
Top Solar County in Ireland
Co. Cork ranks #6 in Ireland for solar yield with 907 kWh/kWp. Homes in Carrigaline benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Carrigaline today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Carrigaline homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Carrigaline, Co. Cork can apply for the SEAI solar PV grant. The maximum grant of €1,800 is confirmed for 2026.
| System Size | Grant Amount | Typical Net Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kWp | €1,400 | €2,000 - €3,000 |
| 3 kWp | €1,600 | €2,500 - €4,000 |
| 4 kWp+ | €1,800 (max) | €3,200 - €6,200 |
Solar Installers in Cork
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Cork.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Carrigaline
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Common Questions About Going Solar in Carrigaline
How much do solar panels cost in Carrigaline?
A 4kWp system in Carrigaline typically costs €5,000-€8,000 before grants. After the €1,800 SEAI grant and 0% VAT, the net cost is €3,200-€6,200. The system generates approximately 3,628 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Carrigaline?
Based on Cork county data, a 4kWp system in Carrigaline generates approximately 3,628 kWh per year — covering 86% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Cork receives around 1,380 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Carrigaline?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1088+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Carrigaline pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Carrigaline?
Yes. East or west-facing roofs still produce 80-85% of the output of a south-facing roof. Many installers recommend splitting panels across east and west to spread generation throughout the day, which can actually improve self-consumption.
Do I need a smart meter for solar panels?
You need a smart meter to sell surplus electricity back to the grid. ESB Networks installs smart meters for free. Your installer submits the NC6 form to ESB Networks after installation, which triggers the meter upgrade if needed.
Is my roof suitable for solar panels in Carrigaline?
Most roofs are suitable. You need at least 15-20 m² of unshaded roof space for a typical 4kWp system (10 panels). South, east, or west-facing roofs work well. Your installer will assess your roof's orientation, angle, and structural suitability during a site survey.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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