Solar Panels in Arklow, Co. Wicklow
Arklow is one of the larger towns in Co. Wicklow with a population of 13,399. With 1,448+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,788 kWh annually — covering 90% 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.
Arklow solar yield and performance data
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Est. Savings
Household Coverage
Population
Eircode Area
Dist. to Wicklow Town
Location
Based on county-level solar data for Wicklow. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Arklow and Renewable Energy
Arklow is a large town in Co. Wicklow with a population of 13,399 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Wicklow Town (21.6 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Arklow is E32 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Wicklow ranks #3 in Ireland for solar yield, making Arklow an excellent location for solar panels.
Why Go Solar in Arklow?
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Arklow can save an estimated €1136+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,788 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. Wicklow ranks #3 in Ireland for solar yield with 947 kWh/kWp. Homes in Arklow benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Arklow today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
SEAI Solar Grant for Arklow Residents
Homeowners in Arklow, Co. Wicklow 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 Wicklow
SEAI registered solar panel installers covering Wicklow.
Nearby Towns Also Served
Also serving nearby areas in Wicklow:
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Browse SEAI-registered installers covering Arklow and all of Wicklow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Arklow
How much do solar panels cost in Arklow?
A 4kWp system in Arklow 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 3,788 kWh/year, paying for itself in 4-6 years.
How much electricity will solar panels generate in Arklow?
Based on Wicklow county data, a 4kWp system in Arklow generates approximately 3,788 kWh per year — covering 90% of average household use (4,200 kWh/year). Wicklow receives around 1,448 sunshine hours annually.
Are solar panels worth it in Arklow?
Yes. With estimated savings of €1136+ per year, the €1,800 SEAI grant, 0% VAT, and export income of 15-25c/kWh, a solar system in Arklow 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 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.
How do I get the SEAI grant in Arklow?
Apply online at seai.ie with your MPRN and Eircode. Use an SEAI-registered installer. Do not start work before your Letter of Offer. After installation, complete a BER assessment. The grant is paid to your bank within 4-6 weeks.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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