Solar Panels in Carndonagh, Co. Donegal
Carndonagh, in rural Co. Donegal, receives 1,175+ sunshine hours per year — ideal conditions for solar energy. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,268 kWh annually, covering 78% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €980+ 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 Carndonagh?
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 Carndonagh
Carndonagh is a town in Co. Donegal with a population of 2,768 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Letterkenny (44.6 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Carndonagh is F94 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Carndonagh
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Carndonagh 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 Carndonagh, 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 Carndonagh today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Carndonagh
Homeowners in Carndonagh, 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 Carndonagh?
Also serving nearby areas in Donegal:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Carndonagh and all of Donegal.
Solar Panel FAQs for Carndonagh
How much do solar panels cost in Carndonagh?
A 4kWp system in Carndonagh 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 Carndonagh?
Based on Donegal county data, a 4kWp system in Carndonagh 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 Carndonagh?
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 Carndonagh pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Is my roof suitable for solar panels in Carndonagh?
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.
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.
How long do solar panels last?
Modern solar panels are warrantied for 25-30 years and typically last even longer. Panel efficiency degrades by about 0.5% per year — so after 25 years, your panels will still produce around 87% of their original output. Inverters typically last 10-15 years and may need one replacement.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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