Solar Panels in Athy, Co. Kildare
Athy is one of the larger towns in Co. Kildare with a population of 11,035. With 1,295+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,540 kWh annually — covering 84% of average household electricity use. After 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 Athy?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Naas
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Kildare. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Athy
Athy is a large town in Co. Kildare with a population of 11,035 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Naas (32.7 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Athy is K56 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Athy
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Athy can save an estimated €1062+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,540 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 Athy, 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 Athy today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Athy
Homeowners in Athy, Co. Kildare 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 Kildare
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Kildare.
Where can you find solar installers near Athy?
Also serving nearby areas in Kildare:
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Solar Panel FAQs for Athy
How much do solar panels cost in Athy?
A 4kWp system in Athy 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 3,540 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Athy?
Based on Kildare county data, a 4kWp system in Athy generates approximately 3,540 kWh per year — covering 84% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Kildare receives around 1,295 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Athy?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1062+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Athy pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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.
How do I get the SEAI grant in Athy?
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.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Athy?
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.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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