Solar Panels in Shanahoe, Co. Laois
Located just 14.4 km from Portlaoise, Shanahoe 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.
How much solar energy can you generate in Shanahoe?
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.
Solar Power in Shanahoe, Co. Laois
Shanahoe is a community in Co. Laois. It is a short drive from Portlaoise (14.4 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Shanahoe is R56 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Laois ranks #10 in Ireland for solar yield, making Shanahoe an excellent location for solar panels.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Shanahoe Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Shanahoe 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 Shanahoe benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Shanahoe today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Shanahoe homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Shanahoe, 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.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Shanahoe
Also serving nearby areas in Laois:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Shanahoe and all of Laois.
Common Questions About Going Solar in Shanahoe
How much do solar panels cost in Shanahoe?
A 4kWp system in Shanahoe 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 Shanahoe?
Based on Laois county data, a 4kWp system in Shanahoe 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 Shanahoe?
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 Shanahoe pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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.
What is the difference between solar PV and solar thermal?
Solar PV panels generate electricity from sunlight. Solar thermal panels heat water directly. For most Irish homes, solar PV is the better investment — it's more versatile, qualifies for the SEAI grant, and you can sell excess electricity. Solar thermal only heats water.
Can I sell excess solar electricity?
Yes. Under Ireland's Microgeneration Support Scheme, you sell surplus electricity at 15-25c/kWh. You need a smart meter (ESB Networks installs free). The first €400/year of export income is tax-free.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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