Solar Panels in Bigwood, Co. Kilkenny
Bigwood, Co. Kilkenny, receives 1,360+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,620 kWh annually, covering 86% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1086+ 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 Bigwood?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Eircode Area
Dist. to Kilkenny
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Kilkenny. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Bigwood
Bigwood is a community in Co. Kilkenny. It is accessible from Kilkenny (36.6 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Bigwood is W12 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Kilkenny ranks #7 in Ireland for solar yield, making Bigwood an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Bigwood
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Bigwood can save an estimated €1086+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,620 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. Kilkenny ranks #7 in Ireland for solar yield with 905 kWh/kWp. Homes in Bigwood benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Bigwood today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Bigwood
Homeowners in Bigwood, Co. Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Kilkenny.
Where can you find solar installers near Bigwood?
Also serving nearby areas in Kilkenny:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Bigwood and all of Kilkenny.
Solar Panel FAQs for Bigwood
How much do solar panels cost in Bigwood?
A 4kWp system in Bigwood 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 3,620 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Bigwood?
Based on Kilkenny county data, a 4kWp system in Bigwood generates approximately 3,620 kWh per year — covering 86% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Kilkenny receives around 1,360 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Bigwood?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1086+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Bigwood pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Do solar panels increase property value in Bigwood?
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 Bigwood is a long-term investment in your property.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Bigwood?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1086+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Bigwood pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Bigwood?
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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