Solar Panels in Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Kenmare, in rural Co. Kerry, receives 1,246+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,584 kWh annually, covering 85% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1075+ 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 Kenmare?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Killarney
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Kerry. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Solar Power in Kenmare, Co. Kerry
Kenmare is a town in Co. Kerry with a population of 2,566 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Killarney (44.3 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Kenmare is V93 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Kerry ranks #8 in Ireland for solar yield, making Kenmare an excellent location for solar panels.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Kenmare Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Kenmare can save an estimated €1075+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,584 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. Kerry ranks #8 in Ireland for solar yield with 896 kWh/kWp. Homes in Kenmare benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Kenmare today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Kenmare homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Kenmare, Co. Kerry 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 Kerry
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Kerry.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Kenmare
Also serving nearby areas in Kerry:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Kenmare and all of Kerry.
Common Questions About Going Solar in Kenmare
How much do solar panels cost in Kenmare?
A 4kWp system in Kenmare 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 3,584 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Kenmare?
Based on Kerry county data, a 4kWp system in Kenmare generates approximately 3,584 kWh per year — covering 85% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Kerry receives around 1,246 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Kenmare?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1075+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Kenmare pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Kenmare?
Yes. East or west-facing roofs still produce 80-85% of the output of a south-facing roof. Many installers recommend splitting panels across east and west to spread generation throughout the day, which can actually improve self-consumption.
How do I get the SEAI grant in Kenmare?
Apply online at seai.ie with your MPRN and Eircode. Use an SEAI-registered installer. Do not start work before your Letter of Offer. After installation, complete a BER assessment. The grant is paid to your bank within 4-6 weeks.
What is the Microgeneration Support Scheme?
The Microgeneration Support Scheme allows homeowners to sell surplus solar electricity back to the grid at 15-25c/kWh. You need a smart meter (free from ESB Networks) and a grid-connected system. The first €400/year of export income is tax-free.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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