Solar Panels in Rathnew, Co. Wicklow
Located just 3 km from Wicklow Town, Rathnew 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.
Rathnew 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.
Rathnew and Renewable Energy
Rathnew is a town in Co. Wicklow with a population of 3,482 (CSO Census 2022). It is conveniently close to Wicklow Town (3 km), where most SEAI-registered installers in the county are based. The Eircode routing key for Rathnew is E34 — you'll need your full Eircode when applying for the SEAI grant. Co. Wicklow ranks #3 in Ireland for solar yield, making Rathnew an excellent location for solar panels.
Why Go Solar in Rathnew?
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Rathnew 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 Rathnew benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Rathnew today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
SEAI Solar Grant for Rathnew Residents
Homeowners in Rathnew, 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 Rathnew and all of Wicklow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Rathnew
How much do solar panels cost in Rathnew?
A 4kWp system in Rathnew 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 Rathnew?
Based on Wicklow county data, a 4kWp system in Rathnew 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 Rathnew?
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 Rathnew pays for itself in 4-6 years and lasts 25+ years.
How does shading affect solar panels in Rathnew?
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.
What is the Microgeneration Support Scheme?
The Microgeneration Support Scheme allows homeowners to sell surplus solar electricity back to the grid at 15-25c/kWh. You need a smart meter (free from ESB Networks) and a grid-connected system. The first €400/year of export income is tax-free.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Rathnew?
With a net cost of €3,200-€6,200 after the SEAI grant and savings of €1136+ per year plus export income, a typical solar system in Rathnew pays for itself in 4-6 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
Sources
Last updated: February 2026
Reviewed by the Solar Info editorial team. Editorial policy
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