Solar Panels in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford
Kilmeaden is a village in Co. Waterford with a population of around 334. Located 11.4 km from Waterford, the area receives 1,465+ sunshine hours per year. A 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,796 kWh annually — saving an estimated €1139+ 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 Kilmeaden?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Waterford
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Waterford. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
About Solar Energy in Kilmeaden
Kilmeaden is a village in Co. Waterford with a population of 334 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Waterford (11.4 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Kilmeaden is W12 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Waterford ranks #2 in Ireland for solar yield, making Kilmeaden an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Kilmeaden
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Kilmeaden can save an estimated €1139+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,796 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. Waterford ranks #2 in Ireland for solar yield with 949 kWh/kWp. Homes in Kilmeaden benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Kilmeaden today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Kilmeaden
Homeowners in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford 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 Waterford
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Waterford.
Where can you find solar installers near Kilmeaden?
Also serving nearby areas in Waterford:
Find Solar Installers in Waterford
Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Kilmeaden and all of Waterford.
Solar Panel FAQs for Kilmeaden
How much do solar panels cost in Kilmeaden?
A 4kWp system in Kilmeaden 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 3,796 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Kilmeaden?
Based on Waterford county data, a 4kWp system in Kilmeaden generates approximately 3,796 kWh per year — covering 90% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Waterford receives around 1,465 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Kilmeaden?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1139+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Kilmeaden pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
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 is the payback period for solar panels in Kilmeaden?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1139+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Kilmeaden pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
How does shading affect solar panels in Kilmeaden?
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
Get a Free Solar Quote in Kilmeaden
Connect with SEAI-registered installers covering Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford.