Solar Panels in Gowran, Co. Kilkenny
Gowran is a small town in Co. Kilkenny with a population of around 847. Located 12.2 km from Kilkenny, the area receives 1,360+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,620 kWh annually — saving an estimated €1086+ per year. The SEAI grant of up to €1,800 and 0% VAT bring the net cost to €3,200–€6,200.
How much solar energy can you generate in Gowran?
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.
Solar Power in Gowran, Co. Kilkenny
Gowran is a small town in Co. Kilkenny with a population of 847 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Kilkenny (12.2 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Gowran is Y21 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Kilkenny ranks #7 in Ireland for solar yield, making Gowran an excellent location for solar panels.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Gowran Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Gowran 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 Gowran benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Gowran today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Gowran homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Gowran, 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.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Gowran
Also serving nearby areas in Kilkenny:
Find Solar Installers in Kilkenny
Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Gowran and all of Kilkenny.
Common Questions About Going Solar in Gowran
How much do solar panels cost in Gowran?
A 4kWp system in Gowran 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 Gowran?
Based on Kilkenny county data, a 4kWp system in Gowran 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 Gowran?
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 Gowran pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Gowran?
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 Gowran pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
Do solar panels work in winter in Kilkenny?
Yes, solar panels generate electricity all year round. While output is lower in winter, Kilkenny still receives usable daylight hours even in December. Annual generation figures (3,620 kWh for a 4kWp system) already account for seasonal variation.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
Get a Free Solar Quote in Gowran
Connect with SEAI-registered installers covering Gowran, Co. Kilkenny.