Solar Panels in Drinagh, Co. Cork
Drinagh, in rural Co. Cork, receives 1,380+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,628 kWh annually, covering 86% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1088+ per year. With 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 Drinagh?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
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 Drinagh, Co. Cork
Drinagh is a rural area in Co. Cork. It is located away from Cork City (52.2 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Drinagh is P81 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Cork ranks #6 in Ireland for solar yield, making Drinagh an excellent location for solar panels.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Drinagh Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Drinagh 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 Drinagh benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Drinagh today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Drinagh homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Drinagh, 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 Drinagh
Also serving nearby areas in Cork:
Find Solar Installers in Cork
Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Drinagh and all of Cork.
Common Questions About Going Solar in Drinagh
How much do solar panels cost in Drinagh?
A 4kWp system in Drinagh 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 Drinagh?
Based on Cork county data, a 4kWp system in Drinagh 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 Drinagh?
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 Drinagh pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Drinagh?
Most homes in Drinagh benefit from a 3-6 kWp system. A 4kWp system (10 panels) covers 86% of average household electricity use. Your installer will assess your roof space, orientation, and energy usage to recommend the optimal size.
Can I sell excess solar electricity?
Yes. Under Ireland's Microgeneration Support Scheme, you sell surplus electricity at 15-25c/kWh. You need a smart meter (ESB Networks installs free). The first €400/year of export income is tax-free.
What is a BER assessment and do I need one?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is required after installing solar panels to claim the SEAI grant. A BER assessor visits your home and rates its energy efficiency from A1 to G. Solar panels typically improve your BER by 1-2 grades. The assessment costs around €150-€200.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
Get a Free Solar Quote in Drinagh
Connect with SEAI-registered installers covering Drinagh, Co. Cork.