What Type of Solar Panel is Best for Ireland?

Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of energy that is becoming increasingly popular in Ireland. With the cost of electricity bills on the rise, many households are turning to solar panels as a way to generate their own electricity and reduce their carbon footprint.

However, with so many different types of solar panels available, it can be difficult to know which is the best option for Ireland.

One of the main factors to consider when choosing a solar panel is its efficiency in converting light into electricity. In Ireland, where direct sunlight can be limited, it is important to choose a panel that is able to generate electricity even on cloudy or rainy days.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are a popular choice in Ireland as they are able to generate electricity from both direct and diffused sunlight. They are also versatile and can be installed on both residential and commercial properties.

Types of Solar Panels

When it comes to choosing the right solar panel for your home in Ireland, there are three main types to consider: Photovoltaic Solar Panels, Solar Thermal Panels, and Thermodynamic Solar Panels.

Photovoltaic Solar Panels

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are the most common type of solar panel used in Ireland. They work by converting the sun's energy into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.

When sunlight hits the solar cells in the panel, it creates an electric current, which can be used to power your home. PV panels are versatile and can be used to generate electricity for both residential and commercial properties.

One of the benefits of PV solar panels is their long lifespan. Most panels come with a warranty of 25 years or more, and with proper maintenance, they can last even longer.

However, it's important to note that PV panels are most effective when they have direct sunlight. Cloudy weather or shading from trees or other buildings can reduce their efficiency.

Solar Thermal Panels

Solar thermal panels are designed to heat hot water using the sun's energy. They are an excellent option for homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills.

Solar thermal panels work by circulating water through the panel, which is heated by the sun and then stored in a hot water cylinder.

One of the benefits of solar thermal panels is that they can be used even on cloudy days. However, the orientation of the panels is important to ensure that they receive as much direct sunlight as possible.

Solar thermal panels are also less expensive than PV solar panels, making them a more affordable option for some homeowners.

Thermodynamic Solar Panels

Thermodynamic solar panels are a relatively new technology that uses a refrigerant fluid to absorb heat from the air, even at low temperatures. This heat is then used to heat water for your home.

Thermodynamic solar panels are a good option for homeowners who want to generate hot water but don't have a lot of space for traditional solar thermal panels.

One of the benefits of thermodynamic solar panels is that they can be used in a wide range of temperatures, making them a good option for homes in Ireland. They are also more efficient than traditional solar thermal panels, which means they can generate more hot water with a smaller system size.

When considering the types of solar panels available, it's important to consider the components that make up the system, as well as the installation service. PV solar panels require an inverter to convert the direct current (DC) generated by the panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used in your home.

Solar thermal panels require a hot water cylinder to store the heated water. It's also important to choose a reputable installation service to ensure that your system is installed correctly and safely.

While the cost of solar panels in Ireland can vary depending on the type of system you choose, the benefits of generating clean energy and reducing your carbon emissions make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Factors to Consider

When choosing the best solar panels for Ireland, there are several factors to consider. These factors include the orientation and tilt of the panels, system size, installation, and workmanship.

Orientation and Tilt

The orientation and tilt of the solar panels are crucial for optimal energy generation. In Ireland, the panels should face south to get the most direct sunlight. The tilt angle should also be considered to ensure maximum efficiency.

System Size

The size of the solar panel system should be based on the energy needs of the household. It is important to consider the electricity bill and energy consumption to determine the appropriate system size. A larger system can generate more electricity, but it also comes with a higher cost.

Installation and Workmanship

Proper installation and workmanship are essential for the efficient operation of the solar panel system. It is important to choose a reputable company with experience in solar panel installation. The installation service should include a power optimiser and power diverter to ensure that excess power is not lost.

Additionally, it is important to consider battery storage to provide blackout protection and to store excess power generated during the day for use at night. The lifespan of the solar panel system should also be considered, as well as maintenance requirements and insurance coverage.

The SEAI grant for solar panels and VAT savings can help reduce the cost of installation, making solar panels a more affordable option for households.

Overall, photovoltaic solar panels are a clean and versatile source of energy that can help reduce energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions.

With proper consideration of factors such as orientation, system size, installation, and workmanship, solar panels can provide a good return on investment while meeting the energy needs of households in Ireland.

Cost and Savings

When considering installing solar panels, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. The cost of solar panels in Ireland can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the number of panels you need and the quality of the panels you choose.

According to the market prices, the cost of solar panels in Ireland can range from €5,000 to €15,000.

However, while the initial cost of solar panels may seem high, it is important to consider the long-term savings. Solar panels generate renewable electricity, which can help to reduce your electricity bills.

A 2 kW system of solar panels can put a dent in your electricity bill. Additionally, the more panels you buy, the cheaper each panel becomes, as noted by Selectra.

To determine how much you could save by installing solar panels in your home, you can use a solar panel savings calculator. This calculator takes into account factors such as your annual kWh generation and panel orientation to estimate your potential savings on your electricity bills.

It is also important to consider any government grants or tax incentives that may be available to help offset the cost of installing solar panels. In Ireland, there are several grants available for homeowners who install solar panels, including the Better Energy Homes Scheme and the Solar PV Pilot Scheme.

Overall, while the initial cost of installing solar panels in Ireland may seem high, the long-term savings on your electricity bills and potential government grants can make them a worthwhile investment.