{"id":25103670,"date":"2025-03-11T09:58:41","date_gmt":"2025-03-11T09:58:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/?p=25103670"},"modified":"2026-03-03T09:31:24","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T09:31:24","slug":"best-counties-for-solar-in-ireland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/best-counties-for-solar-in-ireland\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are the Ireland\u2019s Best Counties for Solar?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More and more people across Ireland are making the switch to renewable energy, and solar power is leading the charge!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a smart, cost-effective way to save on your energy bills while also doing your bit for the planet. But here\u2019s something you might not know: the amount of energy your solar panels produce can actually depend on where you live.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, if you\u2019ve ever wondered, what are the Ireland\u2019s best counties for solar? \u2013 you&#8217;re in the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we\u2019ll take you through the top counties for solar energy, explain why your location matters, and help you figure out if solar is the perfect fit for your home or business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Are the Ireland\u2019s Best Counties for Solar?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ireland is packed with opportunities for solar energy, but some counties offer distinct advantages. Due to higher sunlight levels, helpful local policies, and generous incentives, these areas are ideal for <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"installing solar panels\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"647\">installing solar panels<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are Ireland\u2019s top counties for <strong>solar energy<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wexford<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Waterford<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wicklow<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dublin<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Carlow<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cork<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kilkenny<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kerry<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Laois<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kildare<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Meath<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Galway<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tipperary<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Louth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offaly<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Westmeath&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Limerick<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Roscommon<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Longford<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sligo<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leitrim<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mayo<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monaghan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cavan<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Donegal<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the sun-soaked Wexford and Waterford in the southeast to counties like Cork and Kilkenny, these areas make solar panels an even smarter investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether it&#8217;s due to better <strong>sunlight<\/strong>, available <strong>grants<\/strong>, or <strong>energy buyback schemes<\/strong>, these counties have clear advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Top 26 Counties in Ireland for Solar Energy Potential<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><p>Solar panels are effective across Ireland, but some counties offer better conditions for <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/factors-that-can-affect-your-solar-pv-efficiency\/\"   title=\"maximising energy production\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\"  data-wpil-monitor-id=\"1014\">maximising energy production<\/a> and savings. Due to variations in sunlight and weather, certain areas outperform the national average in solar <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/how-much-electricity-solar-panels-generate-ireland\/\" title=\"energy generation\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"787\">energy generation<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25103801 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/top-26-counties-in-ireland-for-solar-energy-potential.jpg\" alt=\"top-26-counties-in-ireland-for-solar-energy-potential\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/top-26-counties-in-ireland-for-solar-energy-potential.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/top-26-counties-in-ireland-for-solar-energy-potential-980x551.jpg 980w, https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/top-26-counties-in-ireland-for-solar-energy-potential-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1280px, 100vw\" \/><\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a breakdown of the top 26 counties in Ireland, ranked by annual solar generation per kWp of panels. (This data is based on a typical south-facing roof with a 30\u00b0 pitch.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ireland\u2019s Solar Hotspots<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How much solar power can you expect to generate in each county?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s find out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wexford<\/strong> \u2013 965 kWh\/kWp (9.2% above the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Waterford<\/strong> \u2013 949 kWh\/kWp (7.4% higher than the average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wicklow<\/strong> \u2013 947 kWh\/kWp (7.1% above the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dublin<\/strong> \u2013 915 kWh\/kWp (3.5% above the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Carlow<\/strong> \u2013 911 kWh\/kWp (3% higher than the average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cork<\/strong> \u2013 907 kWh\/kWp (2.6% above the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kilkenny<\/strong> \u2013 905 kWh\/kWp (2.3% higher than average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kerry<\/strong> \u2013 896 kWh\/kWp (1.3% above average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clare<\/strong> \u2013 888 kWh\/kWp (0.5% higher than average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Laois<\/strong> \u2013 888 kWh\/kWp (0.4% above average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Galway<\/strong> \u2013 886 kWh\/kWp (0.2% above average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kildare<\/strong> \u2013 885 kWh\/kWp (0.1% above the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Meath<\/strong> \u2013 885 kWh\/kWp (0.1% above average)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Counties Performing Around the National Average<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tipperary<\/strong> \u2013 884 kWh\/kWp (Almost exactly on the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Louth<\/strong> \u2013 881 kWh\/kWp (0.3% lower than average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offaly<\/strong> \u2013 881 kWh\/kWp (Also 0.3% below the national average)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Counties Below the National Average<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Westmeath<\/strong> \u2013 871 kWh\/kWp (1.5% below average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Limerick<\/strong> \u2013 869 kWh\/kWp (1.7% lower than average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Roscommon<\/strong> \u2013 867 kWh\/kWp (2% below average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Longford<\/strong> \u2013 854 kWh\/kWp (3.3% lower than the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sligo<\/strong> \u2013 847 kWh\/kWp (4.2% below average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leitrim<\/strong> \u2013 842 kWh\/kWp (4.7% lower than average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mayo<\/strong> \u2013 841 kWh\/kWp (4.9% below the national average)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monaghan<\/strong> \u2013 841 kWh\/kWp (Also 4.9% lower)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cavan<\/strong> \u2013 841 kWh\/kWp (4.8% below the national average)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Donegal: The Outlier<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Donegal<\/strong> \u2013 817 kWh\/kWp (7.6% below the national average)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While Donegal ranks lowest, there\u2019s still potential for solar savings\u2014especially when taking advantage of grants and modern panel efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Location Affects Solar Panel Efficiency in Ireland?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><p>Your location plays a huge role in how much energy your solar panels will generate. While solar works well across Ireland, factors like sunlight exposure, weather patterns, and local climate can affect efficiency.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-25103803 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/how-location-affects-solar-panel-efficiency-in-ireland.jpg\" alt=\"how-location-affects-solar-panel-efficiency-in-ireland\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/how-location-affects-solar-panel-efficiency-in-ireland.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/how-location-affects-solar-panel-efficiency-in-ireland-980x551.jpg 980w, https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/how-location-affects-solar-panel-efficiency-in-ireland-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1280px, 100vw\" \/><\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>How Geography Influences Solar Energy Generation?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Counties in the south and southeast, like Wexford, Waterford, and Cork, receive more sunshine, making them perfect for solar power. On the other hand, counties in the northwest often see less sunlight, meaning lower energy output.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Seasonal and Climatic Factors Affecting Solar Energy Output<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although Ireland has a reputation for cloudy weather, modern solar panels are still very effective in low-light conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Longer days in summer mean more energy, while shorter winter days can result in less output. However, with the right system design, your solar panels will work efficiently all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3 Important Factors to Keep in Mind Before Installing Solar Panels<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re thinking about installing solar panels, it&#8217;s crucial to understand how <strong><a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"financial incentives\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/solar-panels-grants-ireland\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"648\">financial incentives<\/a><\/strong>, <strong>energy savings<\/strong>, and local <strong>buyback schemes<\/strong> can impact both the cost and long-term benefits of installing solar panels in your area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Financial Support and Incentives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Ireland, homeowners can benefit from the <strong>SEAI solar PV grant<\/strong>, which reduces the <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/cost-of-hybrid-solar-panels-in-ireland\/\" title=\"cost of installing solar panels\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"1002\">cost of installing solar panels<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This grant covers up to 25% of installation costs, with a maximum value of \u20ac1,800 in 2025. Additionally, some counties offer local incentives, further making solar energy more affordable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Energy Buyback Schemes and Local Providers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some counties in Ireland have buyback schemes where homeowners can sell excess energy generated by their solar panels back to the grid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can help reduce <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/how-solar-panels-lower-electricity-bills-ireland\/\" title=\"energy bills\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"941\">energy bills<\/a> and even generate some extra income. Depending on where you live and your energy provider, these schemes can significantly boost the financial benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Cost of Installation and Long-Term Savings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cost of installing solar panels varies depending on the region, influenced by local installers and specific conditions. On average, homeowners can expect to recover their investment within 5 to 6 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After that, your solar panels will continue to provide free electricity for the next 20 years or more, meaning huge savings on energy bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plus, with advances in solar technology, you can enjoy even greater energy savings in the future on energy bills. Plus, with advances in solar technology, you can enjoy even greater energy savings in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to<\/strong> <strong>Start Your Solar Journey with SPV Energy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re ready to make the switch to solar energy, SPV Energy is here to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With years of experience in installing solar panels and in-depth knowledge of Ireland&#8217;s best counties for solar energy, we\u2019ll customize a system that works for you. Take advantage of lower energy bills and start your solar journey today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/contact-us\/\"   title=\"Contact SPV Energy\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\"  data-wpil-monitor-id=\"1447\">Contact SPV Energy<\/a> to get started and get the benefits of solar power!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you\u2019re asking, \u201cWhat are the Ireland\u2019s best counties for solar?\u201d It&#8217;s clear that places like Wexford, Waterford, and Wicklow have the best conditions for solar energy generation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While some areas produce lower solar output, advancements in solar technology and available financial incentives make solar a worthwhile investment no matter where you live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By understanding the differences in solar potential and local support systems, homeowners and businesses can make an informed decision about installing solar panels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>What are the Ireland\u2019s best counties for solar<\/strong>?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Counties such as <strong>Wexford, Waterford, Wicklow, Dublin, Cork, and Kilkenny<\/strong> are among the best for solar energy in Ireland. These counties receive higher levels of sunlight and benefit from local policies that make solar energy even more cost-effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. How does the location in Ireland affect solar panel performance?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your location plays a crucial role in solar panel efficiency. Areas in the <strong>southeast<\/strong>, like Wexford and Waterford, receive more sunshine, making them ideal for solar energy generation. Counties in the <strong>northwest<\/strong>, like Donegal, get less sunlight, which can result in lower energy production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. What are the financial incentives available for installing solar panels in Ireland?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Homeowners in Ireland can benefit from the SEAI solar PV grant, which covers up to 25% of installation costs. The grant value is \u20ac1,800 in 2025. Additionally, some counties offer local incentives to make solar panels even more affordable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Can I make money from my solar panels in Ireland?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, some counties in Ireland have <strong>energy buyback schemes<\/strong>. These programs allow homeowners to sell excess energy generated by their solar panels back to the grid, helping reduce energy bills or even generating additional income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. What is the return on investment (ROI) for installing solar panels in Ireland?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On average, homeowners can expect to recover the cost of installation within 5 to 6 years. After that, the solar panels will continue to provide free electricity for over 20 years, offering significant savings on energy bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Can solar panels still work effectively in cloudy weather in Ireland?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, modern solar panels are highly efficient even in low-light conditions. While Ireland\u2019s climate can be cloudy, solar panels will still generate energy, especially during the longer days of summer. With the right system design, they can work effectively all year round.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>More and more people across Ireland are making the switch to renewable energy, and solar power is leading the charge! It\u2019s a smart, cost-effective way to save on your energy bills while also doing your bit for the planet. But here\u2019s something you might not know: the amount of energy your solar panels produce can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25103671,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"What Are the Ireland Best Counties for Solar?","rank_math_description":"Wondering What are the Ireland\u2019s best counties for solar? Find out which areas offer the best sunlight, financial incentives, and solar energy potential.","rank_math_canonical_url":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"What Are the Ireland Best Counties for Solar?"},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25103670","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blogs"],"acf":{"q1":"","q1a":"","q2":"","q2a":"","q3":"","q3a":"","q4":"","q4a":"","q5":"","q5a":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25103670","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25103670"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25103670\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25106624,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25103670\/revisions\/25106624"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25103671"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25103670"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25103670"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spvenergy.ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25103670"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}