Solar Panels in Little Island, Co. Cork
Located just 8.4 km from Cork City, Little Island 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.
What is the solar potential in Little Island?
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.
About Solar Energy in Little Island
Little Island is a area near the county town in Co. Cork. It is conveniently close to Cork City (8.4 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Little Island is T45 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Cork ranks #6 in Ireland for solar yield, making Little Island an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Little Island
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Little Island 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 Little Island benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Little Island today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Little Island
Homeowners in Little Island, 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.
Where can you find solar installers near Little Island?
Also serving nearby areas in Cork:
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Solar Panel FAQs for Little Island
How much do solar panels cost in Little Island?
A 4kWp system in Little Island 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 Little Island?
Based on Cork county data, a 4kWp system in Little Island 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 Little Island?
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 Little Island pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Little Island?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1088+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Little Island pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
What roof direction is best for solar panels in Little Island?
South-facing roofs produce the most electricity (100% of potential). South-east and south-west roofs produce around 95%. East or west-facing roofs still produce 80-85%. North-facing roofs are generally not recommended for solar panels in Ireland.
What is the difference between solar PV and solar thermal?
Solar PV panels generate electricity from sunlight. Solar thermal panels heat water directly. For most Irish homes, solar PV is the better investment — it's more versatile, qualifies for the SEAI grant, and you can sell excess electricity. Solar thermal only heats water.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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