Solar Panels in Knocktopher, Co. Kilkenny
Knocktopher is a village in Co. Kilkenny with a population of around 174. Located 19.5 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.
What is the solar potential in Knocktopher?
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.
About Solar Energy in Knocktopher
Knocktopher is a village in Co. Kilkenny with a population of 174 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Kilkenny (19.5 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Knocktopher is R21 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Kilkenny ranks #7 in Ireland for solar yield, making Knocktopher an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Knocktopher
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Knocktopher 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 Knocktopher benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Knocktopher today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Knocktopher
Homeowners in Knocktopher, 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 Knocktopher?
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Solar Panel FAQs for Knocktopher
How much do solar panels cost in Knocktopher?
A 4kWp system in Knocktopher 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 Knocktopher?
Based on Kilkenny county data, a 4kWp system in Knocktopher 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 Knocktopher?
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 Knocktopher pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What maintenance do solar panels need?
Solar panels need very little maintenance. Rain keeps them clean in most cases. There are no moving parts. Your inverter may need replacing once in 25 years (10-15 year lifespan). Annual visual checks and occasional cleaning if near trees is all that's needed.
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 size solar system do I need for my home in Knocktopher?
Most homes in Knocktopher benefit from a 3-6 kWp system. A 4kWp system (10 panels) covers 86% of average household electricity use. Your installer will assess your roof space, orientation, and energy usage to recommend the optimal size.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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