Solar Panels in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin
Rathcoole, Co. Dublin, receives 1,500+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,660 kWh annually, covering 87% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1098+ 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 Rathcoole?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Dublin
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Dublin. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Rathcoole
Rathcoole is a town in Co. Dublin with a population of 5,792 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Dublin (15.8 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Rathcoole is D22 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Dublin ranks #4 in Ireland for solar yield, making Rathcoole an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Rathcoole
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Rathcoole can save an estimated €1098+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,660 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. Dublin ranks #4 in Ireland for solar yield with 915 kWh/kWp. Homes in Rathcoole benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Rathcoole today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Rathcoole
Homeowners in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin 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 Dublin
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Dublin.
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Solar Panel FAQs for Rathcoole
How much do solar panels cost in Rathcoole?
A 4kWp system in Rathcoole 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 3,660 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Rathcoole?
Based on Dublin county data, a 4kWp system in Rathcoole generates approximately 3,660 kWh per year — covering 87% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Dublin receives around 1,500 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Rathcoole?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1098+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Rathcoole pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What is a BER assessment and do I need one?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is required after installing solar panels to claim the SEAI grant. A BER assessor visits your home and rates its energy efficiency from A1 to G. Solar panels typically improve your BER by 1-2 grades. The assessment costs around €150-€200.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Rathcoole?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1098+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Rathcoole 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 Rathcoole?
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.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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