Solar Panels in Donacarney, Co. Meath
Donacarney is one of the larger towns in Co. Meath with a population of 15,642. With 1,315+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,540 kWh annually — covering 84% 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.
Donacarney solar yield and performance data
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Navan
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Meath. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Donacarney and Renewable Energy
Donacarney is a large town in Co. Meath with a population of 15,642 (CSO Census 2022). It is accessible from Navan (27.3 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. Donacarney's coastal position means good exposure to sunlight, though installations should account for higher wind loads and salt air. The Eircode routing key for Donacarney is A92 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant.
Why Go Solar in Donacarney?
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Donacarney can save an estimated €1062+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,540 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.
Coastal Location Advantage
Donacarney's coastal position often means fewer obstructions and clearer horizons for solar exposure. Modern panels are designed to withstand coastal conditions including salt air.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Donacarney today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
SEAI Solar Grant for Donacarney Residents
Homeowners in Donacarney, Co. Meath 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 Meath
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Meath.
Nearby Towns Also Served
Also serving nearby areas in Meath:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Donacarney and all of Meath.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Donacarney
How much do solar panels cost in Donacarney?
A 4kWp system in Donacarney 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 3,540 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Donacarney?
Based on Meath county data, a 4kWp system in Donacarney generates approximately 3,540 kWh per year — covering 84% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Meath receives around 1,315 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Donacarney?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1062+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Donacarney pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Do I need to clean my solar panels?
In most cases, rain keeps solar panels clean enough in Ireland. If your panels are near trees or at a low angle, an annual clean may improve output by 2-5%. Never use abrasive materials — a soft brush and water is sufficient.
Can I add a battery to my solar system?
Yes. A home battery (typically 5-10 kWh) stores excess solar electricity for evening use. This increases your self-consumption from around 30-40% to 60-80%. Batteries currently cost €3,000-€6,000 and are not yet covered by the SEAI grant.
How does shading affect solar panels in Donacarney?
Shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce output significantly. Modern systems use optimisers or microinverters so that shading on one panel doesn't drag down the whole system. Your installer will assess shading during the site survey.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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