What Solar PV Grants Are Available in Ireland?
Updated March 30, 2023
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of renewable energy sources, and the Irish government has made efforts to encourage the use of solar energy. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) are two organisations that offer grants to homeowners, farmers, schools, businesses and community centres, among others, who are interested in installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on their properties. Here is an overview of the various SEAI and TAMS solar PV grants in Ireland.
SEAI Solar PV Grants
The SEAI provides grants to both homeowners and non-domestic groups who want to install solar PV panels. The grant covers the cost of labour and materials. The amount depends on the size of the system, based on the kilowatt peak (kWp) installed.
Homeowners can apply for the Solar Electricity Grant. The rate is €900 per kWp, up to 2 kWp and €300 for each additional kWp until 4kWp. The maximum grant is €2,400. If the cost is less than the maximum, you will receive a grant for the total cost of the installation.
For example, you will get:
- €1,950 for 2.5kWp
- €2,100 for 3kWp
- €2,400 for 4kWp or larger
Businesses, schools, farms and other organisations can apply for the Non-Domestic Microgeneration Grant (NDMG). The rate is the same as outlined above for homeowners, but the size of the system is limited to a maximum of 6kWp. As a result, the maximum grant is €2,400 for 4kWp to 6 kWp systems.
TAMS Solar PV Grants
TAMS is a scheme run by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) that provides financial support to farmers who want to improve the infrastructure and facilities on their farms. One of the areas that TAMS supports is the installation of renewable energy systems, including solar PV systems, known as the Solar Capital Investment Scheme.
Under TAMS, farmers can receive a grant of up to 60% of the cost of the PV system, with a minimum grant of €2,000 and a maximum of €90,000. The costs include the PV panels, inverters, wiring, and installation costs. The maximum grant is also €90,000 for farmers who apply under a registered farm partnership.
The SEAI and TAMS solar PV grants are excellent incentives for homeowners and farmers to invest in renewable energy sources. The grants help to offset the initial cost of installing solar PV systems and encourage the uptake of clean energy. It is important to note that both grants have specific eligibility criteria, and applicants must meet all the requirements to receive funding. This note is particularly important for those who are interested in getting panels funded by the Solar Capital Investment Scheme. It should also be mentioned that individuals and organisations are only eligible to apply once for all the above grants.
Investing in solar PV systems can bring many benefits, including reduced energy bills, increased energy independence, and a reduced carbon footprint. If you are interested in installing a solar PV system, it is worth exploring the different grant options available and seeking professional advice from one of our solar energy advisors.
Feel free to contact us for more information, we’re here to help.