Solar Panels in Balla, Co. Mayo
Balla is a small town in Co. Mayo with a population of around 860. Located 12 km from Castlebar, the area receives 1,105+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,364 kWh annually — saving an estimated €1009+ per year. The SEAI grant of up to €1,800 and 0% VAT bring the net cost to €3,200–€6,200.
How much solar energy can you generate in Balla?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Castlebar
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Mayo. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Solar Power in Balla, Co. Mayo
Balla is a small town in Co. Mayo with a population of 860 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Castlebar (12 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Balla is F56 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Advantages of Solar Energy for Balla Homeowners
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Balla can save an estimated €1009+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,364 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 Balla today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What SEAI grants can Balla homeowners claim?
Homeowners in Balla, Co. Mayo 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 Mayo
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Mayo.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Balla
Also serving nearby areas in Mayo:
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Common Questions About Going Solar in Balla
How much do solar panels cost in Balla?
A 4kWp system in Balla 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 3,364 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Balla?
Based on Mayo county data, a 4kWp system in Balla generates approximately 3,364 kWh per year — covering 80% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Mayo receives around 1,105 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Balla?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1009+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Balla pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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.
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.
What happens to my solar panels if I move house in Balla?
Solar panels stay with the property — they're a permanent fixture. They add value to your home for the next buyer. The SEAI grant does not need to be repaid if you sell. Your installer can transfer monitoring accounts to the new owner.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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