Solar Panels in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick
Rathkeale is a small town in Co. Limerick with a population of around 1,231. Located 26.2 km from Limerick, the area receives 1,281+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,476 kWh annually — saving an estimated €1043+ per year. The SEAI grant of up to €1,800 and 0% VAT bring the net cost to €3,200–€6,200.
Rathkeale solar yield and performance data
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Limerick
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Limerick. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Rathkeale and Renewable Energy
Rathkeale is a small town in Co. Limerick with a population of 1,231 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Limerick (26.2 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Rathkeale is V94 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Why Go Solar in Rathkeale?
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Rathkeale can save an estimated €1043+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,476 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.
Increase Property Value
Solar panels improve your BER rating and can add up to 4% to your property value.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Rathkeale today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
SEAI Solar Grant for Rathkeale Residents
Homeowners in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick 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 Limerick
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Limerick.
Nearby Towns Also Served
Also serving nearby areas in Limerick:
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Rathkeale
How much do solar panels cost in Rathkeale?
A 4kWp system in Rathkeale 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 3,476 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Rathkeale?
Based on Limerick county data, a 4kWp system in Rathkeale generates approximately 3,476 kWh per year — covering 83% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Limerick receives around 1,281 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Rathkeale?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1043+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Rathkeale pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
What roof direction is best for solar panels in Rathkeale?
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.
How do I get the SEAI grant in Rathkeale?
Apply online at seai.ie with your MPRN and Eircode. Use an SEAI-registered installer. Do not start work before your Letter of Offer. After installation, complete a BER assessment. The grant is paid to your bank within 4-6 weeks.
Do solar panels work in winter in Limerick?
Yes, solar panels generate electricity all year round. While output is lower in winter, Limerick still receives usable daylight hours even in December. Annual generation figures (3,476 kWh for a 4kWp system) already account for seasonal variation.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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