Solar Panels in Newtownforbes, Co. Longford
Newtownforbes is a small town in Co. Longford with a population of around 851. Located 5.1 km from Longford, the area receives 1,285+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,416 kWh annually — saving an estimated €1025+ 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 Newtownforbes?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Longford
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Longford. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Newtownforbes
Newtownforbes is a small town in Co. Longford with a population of 851 (CSO Census 2022). It is conveniently close to Longford (5.1 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Newtownforbes is N37 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Newtownforbes
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Newtownforbes can save an estimated €1025+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,416 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 Newtownforbes today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Newtownforbes
Homeowners in Newtownforbes, Co. Longford 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 Longford
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Longford.
Where can you find solar installers near Newtownforbes?
Also serving nearby areas in Longford:
Find Solar Installers in Longford
Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Newtownforbes and all of Longford.
Solar Panel FAQs for Newtownforbes
How much do solar panels cost in Newtownforbes?
A 4kWp system in Newtownforbes 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 3,416 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Newtownforbes?
Based on Longford county data, a 4kWp system in Newtownforbes generates approximately 3,416 kWh per year — covering 81% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Longford receives around 1,285 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Newtownforbes?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1025+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Newtownforbes pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Do solar panels work in winter in Longford?
Yes, solar panels generate electricity all year round. While output is lower in winter, Longford still receives usable daylight hours even in December. Annual generation figures (3,416 kWh for a 4kWp system) already account for seasonal variation.
Do solar panels increase property value in Newtownforbes?
Yes. Solar panels improve your BER rating and can increase property value by up to 4%. Buyers increasingly look for energy-efficient homes with lower running costs. A solar system in Newtownforbes is a long-term investment in your property.
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
Get a Free Solar Quote in Newtownforbes
Connect with SEAI-registered installers covering Newtownforbes, Co. Longford.