Solar Panels in Portnoo, Co. Donegal
Portnoo, 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.
How much solar energy can you generate in Portnoo?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Eircode Area
Dist. to Letterkenny
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Donegal. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Solar Power in Portnoo, Co. Donegal
Portnoo is a community in Co. Donegal. It is accessible from Letterkenny (49.1 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Portnoo is F94 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Portnoo Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Portnoo 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 Portnoo, 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 Portnoo today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Portnoo homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Portnoo, 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.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Portnoo
Also serving nearby areas in Donegal:
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Common Questions About Going Solar in Portnoo
How much do solar panels cost in Portnoo?
A 4kWp system in Portnoo 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 Portnoo?
Based on Donegal county data, a 4kWp system in Portnoo 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 Portnoo?
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 Portnoo pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What happens during a power cut?
Standard grid-tied solar systems shut down during a power cut for safety reasons (to protect ESB workers). If you need backup power, you can install a hybrid inverter with battery storage that provides power during outages.
Do solar panels increase property value in Portnoo?
Yes. Solar panels improve your BER rating and can increase property value by up to 4%. Buyers increasingly look for energy-efficient homes with lower running costs. A solar system in Portnoo is a long-term investment in your property.
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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