Solar Panels in Rathgormack, Co. Waterford
Rathgormack, Co. Waterford, receives 1,465+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,796 kWh annually, covering 90% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1139+ per year. With 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.
What is the solar potential in Rathgormack?
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
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 Rathgormack
Rathgormack is a community in Co. Waterford. It is accessible from Waterford (26.9 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Rathgormack is X42 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Waterford ranks #2 in Ireland for solar yield, making Rathgormack an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Rathgormack
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Rathgormack 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 Rathgormack benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Rathgormack today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Rathgormack
Homeowners in Rathgormack, 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 Rathgormack?
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Solar Panel FAQs for Rathgormack
How much do solar panels cost in Rathgormack?
A 4kWp system in Rathgormack 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 Rathgormack?
Based on Waterford county data, a 4kWp system in Rathgormack 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 Rathgormack?
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 Rathgormack pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
Can I sell excess solar electricity?
Yes. Under Ireland's Microgeneration Support Scheme, you sell surplus electricity at 15-25c/kWh. You need a smart meter (ESB Networks installs free). The first €400/year of export income is tax-free.
What is a BER assessment and do I need one?
A Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is required after installing solar panels to claim the SEAI grant. A BER assessor visits your home and rates its energy efficiency from A1 to G. Solar panels typically improve your BER by 1-2 grades. The assessment costs around €150-€200.
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.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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