Solar Panels in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow
Located just 13.4 km from Wicklow Town, Rathdrum receives 1,448+ sunshine hours per year — among the highest in Ireland. A 4kWp system generates approximately 3,788 kWh annually, covering 90% of average household electricity use and saving an estimated €1136+ 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 Rathdrum?
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.
About Solar Energy in Rathdrum
Rathdrum is a town in Co. Wicklow with a population of 2,264 (CSO Census 2022). It is a short drive from Wicklow Town (13.4 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Rathdrum is Y34 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Wicklow ranks #3 in Ireland for solar yield, making Rathdrum an excellent location for solar panels.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Rathdrum
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Rathdrum 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 Rathdrum benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Rathdrum today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
Government Support for Solar in Rathdrum
Homeowners in Rathdrum, 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.
Where can you find solar installers near Rathdrum?
Also serving nearby areas in Wicklow:
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Solar Panel FAQs for Rathdrum
How much do solar panels cost in Rathdrum?
A 4kWp system in Rathdrum 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 Rathdrum?
Based on Wicklow county data, a 4kWp system in Rathdrum 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 Rathdrum?
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 Rathdrum pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
How does shading affect solar panels in Rathdrum?
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.
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.
Can I get solar panels on an east or west facing roof in Rathdrum?
Yes. East or west-facing roofs still produce 80-85% of the output of a south-facing roof. Many installers recommend splitting panels across east and west to spread generation throughout the day, which can actually improve self-consumption.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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