Solar Panels in Ballintra, Co. Donegal
Ballintra is a village in Co. Donegal with a population of around 242. Located 49.2 km from Letterkenny, the area receives 1,175+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,268 kWh annually — saving an estimated €980+ per year. The SEAI grant of up to €1,800 and 0% VAT bring the net cost to €3,200–€6,200.
What is the solar potential in Ballintra?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Letterkenny
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Donegal. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Ballintra
Ballintra is a village in Co. Donegal with a population of 242 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Letterkenny (49.2 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Ballintra is F94 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Ballintra
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Ballintra can save an estimated €980+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,268 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.
Energy Independence
For homes in rural Ballintra, solar panels provide energy security and reduced reliance on the grid. Combined with a battery, you can store power for evening use.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Ballintra today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Ballintra
Homeowners in Ballintra, Co. Donegal 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 Donegal
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Donegal.
Where can you find solar installers near Ballintra?
Also serving nearby areas in Donegal:
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Solar Panel FAQs for Ballintra
How much do solar panels cost in Ballintra?
A 4kWp system in Ballintra 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 3,268 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Ballintra?
Based on Donegal county data, a 4kWp system in Ballintra generates approximately 3,268 kWh per year — covering 78% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Donegal receives around 1,175 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Ballintra?
Yes. With estimated savings of €980+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Ballintra pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Ballintra?
Most homes in Ballintra benefit from a 3-6 kWp system. A 4kWp system (10 panels) covers 78% of average household electricity use. Your installer will assess your roof space, orientation, and energy usage to recommend the optimal size.
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.
How does shading affect solar panels in Ballintra?
Shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce output significantly. Modern systems use optimisers or microinverters so that shading on one panel doesn't drag down the whole system. Your installer will assess shading during the site survey.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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