Solar Thermal Installers in Ireland

How much does solar thermal cost in Ireland?

A domestic solar thermal system typically costs between €4,000 and €6,000 installed, before the SEAI solar water heating grant of €1,200. The final figure depends on the collector type, the number of tubes or panels and whether a new hot water cylinder is needed, so your installer confirms it at the survey.

What SEAI grant is available for solar thermal?

The SEAI solar water heating grant is worth €1,200, provided the installer is registered with SEAI. Every installer listed here is SEAI-registered, and you apply to SEAI once the work is complete.

Does solar thermal work in the Irish climate?

Yes. Solar thermal collectors produce useful hot water even on overcast days, and cut water-heating costs across the year, most of all through the summer. Evacuated-tube collectors in particular hold their output well in the lower winter sun.

How much hot water will a solar thermal system provide?

A well-sized solar thermal system typically supplies a large share of a household's hot water across the year, most of it from late spring to early autumn. In peak summer it can cover close to all of your hot water, while in winter it pre-warms the water and your boiler or heat pump does the rest. Your installer sizes the collectors and cylinder to your household at the survey.

Flat-plate or evacuated-tube collectors, which is better?

Both work well on Irish roofs. Flat-plate collectors are robust and lower cost, and suit steady all-round hot water. Evacuated-tube collectors tend to hold their performance better in low winter sun, which is why they are the more common choice, though they usually cost a little more. Your installer recommends the right type for your roof and hot water demand.

Do I need a new hot water cylinder for solar thermal?

Often, yes. Solar thermal needs a cylinder with a dedicated solar coil, so if your existing tank does not have one it is usually replaced as part of the install. Fitting the cylinder is plumbing work, and many installers pair with a registered plumber for the tank and pipework.

Does solar thermal need planning permission in Ireland?

For most houses, no. Roof-mounted solar collectors are generally exempt from planning permission in Ireland, subject to conditions on their size and how they sit on the roof. Protected structures and some designated areas can be different, so your installer confirms the requirements before fitting.

What is the difference between solar thermal and solar PV?

Solar thermal heats your hot water using roof collectors. Solar PV generates electricity using panels. They solve different problems, and some homes fit both, or use solar PV with a diverter to send spare electricity to the immersion.

Can I have solar thermal with a heat pump?

Yes. Solar thermal handles hot water while a heat pump handles space heating, and the two work well together in the right home. The heat pump tops up the cylinder through the darker months when the collectors gather less.

How long does a solar thermal system last?

A quality solar thermal system typically lasts twenty years or more, with the collectors being the longest-lived part. The pump and controls may need attention over that time, and a simple check every year or two keeps the system working efficiently and protects any warranty.