Solar Panels in Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Portlaoise is one of the larger towns in Co. Laois with a population of 23,494. With 1,278+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,552 kWh annually — covering 85% of average household electricity use. After 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 Portlaoise?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
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 Portlaoise
Portlaoise is a large town in Co. Laois with a population of 23,494 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Portlaoise (16.5 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Portlaoise is Y25 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Laois ranks #10 in Ireland for solar yield, making Portlaoise an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Portlaoise
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Portlaoise 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 Portlaoise benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Portlaoise today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Portlaoise
Homeowners in Portlaoise, 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 Portlaoise?
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Solar Panel FAQs for Portlaoise
How much do solar panels cost in Portlaoise?
A 4kWp system in Portlaoise 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 Portlaoise?
Based on Laois county data, a 4kWp system in Portlaoise 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 Portlaoise?
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 Portlaoise pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Portlaoise?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1066+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Portlaoise pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
What roof direction is best for solar panels in Portlaoise?
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.
Do I need a smart meter for solar panels?
You need a smart meter to sell surplus electricity back to the grid. ESB Networks installs smart meters for free. Your installer submits the NC6 form to ESB Networks after installation, which triggers the meter upgrade if needed.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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