Solar Panels in Clara, Co. Kilkenny
Located just 5.9 km from Kilkenny, Clara 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.
Clara solar yield and performance data
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Kilkenny
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Kilkenny. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Clara and Renewable Energy
Clara is a town in Co. Kilkenny with a population of 3,403 (CSO Census 2022). It is conveniently close to Kilkenny (5.9 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Clara is R95 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Kilkenny ranks #7 in Ireland for solar yield, making Clara an excellent location for solar panels.
Why Go Solar in Clara?
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Clara 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 Clara benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Clara today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
SEAI Solar Grant for Clara Residents
Homeowners in Clara, 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.
Nearby Towns Also Served
Also serving nearby areas in Kilkenny:
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Clara
How much do solar panels cost in Clara?
A 4kWp system in Clara 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 Clara?
Based on Kilkenny county data, a 4kWp system in Clara 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 Clara?
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 Clara pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What roof direction is best for solar panels in Clara?
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.
How does shading affect solar panels in Clara?
Shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce output significantly. Modern systems use optimisers or microinverters so that shading on one panel doesn't drag down the whole system. Your installer will assess shading during the site survey.
What happens to my solar panels if I move house in Clara?
Solar panels stay with the property — they're a permanent fixture. They add value to your home for the next buyer. The SEAI grant does not need to be repaid if you sell. Your installer can transfer monitoring accounts to the new owner.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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