Solar Panels in Ballacolla, Co. Laois
Ballacolla, Co. Laois, receives 1,278+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,552 kWh annually, covering 85% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1066+ 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 Ballacolla?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Eircode Area
Dist. to Portlaoise
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Laois. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Ballacolla
Ballacolla is a community in Co. Laois. It is a short drive from Portlaoise (18.2 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Ballacolla is R56 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Laois ranks #10 in Ireland for solar yield, making Ballacolla an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Ballacolla
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Ballacolla can save an estimated €1066+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,552 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. Laois ranks #10 in Ireland for solar yield with 888 kWh/kWp. Homes in Ballacolla benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Ballacolla today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Ballacolla
Homeowners in Ballacolla, Co. Laois 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 Laois
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Laois.
Where can you find solar installers near Ballacolla?
Also serving nearby areas in Laois:
Find Solar Installers in Laois
Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Ballacolla and all of Laois.
Solar Panel FAQs for Ballacolla
How much do solar panels cost in Ballacolla?
A 4kWp system in Ballacolla 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 3,552 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Ballacolla?
Based on Laois county data, a 4kWp system in Ballacolla generates approximately 3,552 kWh per year — covering 85% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Laois receives around 1,278 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Ballacolla?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1066+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Ballacolla pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Ballacolla?
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.
How long does solar panel installation take?
A typical residential installation takes 1-2 days. This includes scaffolding, mounting the panels, wiring, inverter installation, and connecting to the grid. Your installer handles the ESB Networks notification (NC6 form).
What is a BER assessment and do I need one?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is required after installing solar panels to claim the SEAI grant. A BER assessor visits your home and rates its energy efficiency from A1 to G. Solar panels typically improve your BER by 1-2 grades. The assessment costs around €150-€200.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
Get a Free Solar Quote in Ballacolla
Connect with SEAI-registered installers covering Ballacolla, Co. Laois.