Solar Panels in Youghal, Co. Cork
Youghal, 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.
What is the solar potential in Youghal?
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.
About Solar Energy in Youghal
Youghal is a town in Co. Cork with a population of 8,564 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Cork City (43.7 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Youghal is P24 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Cork ranks #6 in Ireland for solar yield, making Youghal an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Youghal
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Youghal 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 Youghal benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Youghal today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Youghal
Homeowners in Youghal, 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 Youghal?
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Solar Panel FAQs for Youghal
How much do solar panels cost in Youghal?
A 4kWp system in Youghal 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 Youghal?
Based on Cork county data, a 4kWp system in Youghal 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 Youghal?
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 Youghal pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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.
Do solar panels work in winter in Cork?
Yes, solar panels generate electricity all year round. While output is lower in winter, Cork still receives usable daylight hours even in December. Annual generation figures (3,628 kWh for a 4kWp system) already account for seasonal variation.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Youghal?
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 Youghal pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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