SPRING INTO SOLAR
Updated April 3rd, 2026
Daffodils, crocuses, the grass growing again. This seemingly interminable winter is coming to an end at last.
At our house, in the Spring, minds and hands turn to “the spring clean”. This year, with all the kids out of the house – for good? – we’re not just beating carpets and sloshing paint around. We’ve hit the attic, the garage, and the space we call “the Hell Hole” under the eaves, and sorted and discarded bags of stuff we don’t remotely recall acquiring.
It’s been useful, and the process also put me in mind to address some of the BER-killing flaws in our old home that have kept our energy efficiency rating from the A1 it should be. The Hell Hole is now getting better, more effective insulation as a priority.
The Spring Clean is a great opportunity to contemplate your house’s energy consumption and make changes to those newly tidy spaces. Move through 2026 with a greener, more sustainable home and spring into solar. Solar can be an important part of that rejuvenation process.
Clearing the gutters is a part of most homeowners’ annual maintenance. This year, while you’re at it, have a look at the roof. If it’s sound, then assess the state of the tiles. Scrub off any moss, arrange to have replacements fitted where needed. Then consider whether it might be suitable for mounting solar panels.
If the roof is older (over 15–20 years) or nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be wise to seek advice on repair or replacement. Solar panels are built to last 25 years, and a degenerating roof shouldn’t be the reason your system comes down before its time.
If your home’s roof is structurally sound, there is likely a way in which panels can be installed to maximum benefit. Most residential systems require about 15-20 square metres of relatively unshaded space – facing south, east or west. Most roof tiles – concrete, slate, fibre cement – are suitable for mounting, as is metal. The location chosen must also be free from obstructions such as chimneys, windows, or aerials.
Most people have seen rooftop solar by now – and recognise panels in place on a sloped roof. If the pitch of your roof isn’t perfect, or if the roof is flat, panels installed on adjustable frames can usually resolve the issue
The roof must be able to support the additional weight of the solar panels and mounting equipment, which usually adds 10–20kg per square metre (approximately 15-20 kg per panel).
When you’ve determined that the roof meets the required standards, consider your property’s electrical system. What kind of fuse board does it have? If its an old system using ceramic fuses, you may need to upgrade the unit to handle the new electrical load. (This is a safe, relatively minor fix.)
Finally, have a look at the location of your home’s main electricity board. It needs to be in a location with sufficient space nearby (usually about 1 sq. metre) to install an inverter, to convert the solar energy generated by roof panels into usable electricity.
If, like us, you’ve cleaned out the attic, you’ve already made it easier for an expert (perhaps a SolarSmart technician?) to inspect your home’s structural integrity and locate rafters. Now all you have to do is spring into action and spring into solar.
Why Choose Solar In Ireland?
Investing in a solar panel systems in Ireland can bring many benefits, including reduced energy bills, increased energy independence, and a reduced carbon footprint. If you are interested in installing a solar panel system in Ireland, it is also worth exploring the different grant options and green business loans 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.
