Selling Electricity Back to the Grid in Ireland: Everything You Need to Know

Selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland has become a popular option for homeowners and businesses looking to generate and sell renewable energy.

The government has introduced several schemes to encourage the production of renewable energy, including feed-in tariffs and the Microgeneration Support Scheme. These schemes provide financial incentives for those who generate renewable energy and sell it back to the grid.

Can you sell electricity back to the grid in Ireland?

Under the Microgeneration Support Scheme, households with registered microgeneration devices can sell any excess electricity back to the grid and receive a Clean Export Guarantee payment.

Since July 2022, Irish homeowners have also been eligible to sell their surplus solar electricity to the grid, with prices for exported electricity negotiated between electricity suppliers and consumers. However, it is important to shop around for the highest value to ensure you get the best return on your investment.

While selling electricity back to the grid can provide financial benefits and contribute to Ireland's renewable energy goals, it is important to consider the costs and requirements involved.

Homeowners and businesses must ensure their renewable energy systems meet certain standards and regulations, and may need to invest in equipment and installation costs.

Nevertheless, with the right investment and support, selling electricity back to the grid can be a viable option for those looking to generate renewable energy and reduce their carbon footprint.

Can You Sell Electricity Back to the Grid in Ireland?

In Ireland, it is possible to sell excess electricity generated by renewable energy systems back to the grid. This allows homeowners, businesses, and farmers to earn money from the electricity they generate, as well as reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their electricity bills.

To sell electricity back to the grid, the renewable energy system must be connected to the grid and meet certain eligibility criteria.

This involves getting the necessary permits, inspections, and approvals from the utility company and local authorities. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) regulates the process of selling electricity back to the grid.

There are different options for selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland, including net metering, feed-in tariffs, and the Clean Export Guarantee.

Net metering allows homeowners to offset their electricity usage with the electricity they generate, while feed-in tariffs provide a fixed rate for each unit of electricity generated. The Clean Export Guarantee is a government-backed program that guarantees a fair price for surplus energy exported to the grid.

To participate in these programs, homeowners and businesses must have a renewable energy system installed, such as solar PV, wind turbines, or micro-hydro systems. They must also have a special meter installed to measure the amount of electricity generated and exported to the grid.

The financial benefits of selling electricity back to the grid depend on several factors, including the feed-in tariff rate, the market value of electricity, and the initial costs of installing the renewable energy system.

It is important to consider these factors and calculate the return on investment before deciding to sell electricity back to the grid.

In addition to financial benefits, selling electricity back to the grid also has environmental benefits. By generating electricity from renewable sources, homeowners and businesses can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to Ireland's net-zero carbon economy by 2050.

Overall, selling electricity back to the grid can be a worthwhile option for homeowners, businesses, and farmers with renewable energy systems. It is important to consider the various options for selling electricity back to the grid, as well as the initial costs and potential earnings, before making a decision.

The Grid in Ireland

The electricity grid in Ireland is a complex system that consists of the national grid and the distribution network. The national grid is owned and operated by EirGrid, which is responsible for ensuring a secure and reliable supply of electricity to the entire country.

The distribution network, on the other hand, is owned and operated by the local distribution companies, such as Electric Ireland, SSE Airtricity, and Bord Gáis Energy.

The national grid in Ireland is a high-voltage transmission system that connects power stations and large industrial users to the distribution network. It operates at voltages of 220 kV, 400 kV, and 500 kV, and is designed to transport large amounts of electricity over long distances.

The national grid is also connected to the grids in Northern Ireland and Great Britain, which allows for the import and export of electricity between the countries.

The distribution network in Ireland is a low-voltage system that delivers electricity to homes, businesses, and other small users. It operates at voltages of 110 V, 220 V, and 400 V, and consists of thousands of kilometres of overhead lines and underground cables.

The distribution network is divided into different regions, each of which is served by a local distribution company.

To sell excess electricity back to the grid in Ireland, homeowners and businesses need to be connected to the distribution network and have a registered microgeneration device.

The device must meet certain technical standards and be installed by a qualified installer. Once the device is installed, the owner can apply for the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG), which allows them to sell any excess electricity back to the grid at negotiated prices.

In summary, the electricity grid in Ireland is a complex system that consists of the national grid and the distribution network. To sell excess electricity back to the grid, homeowners and businesses need to be connected to the distribution network and have a registered microgeneration device.

The CEG allows them to sell any excess electricity back to the grid at negotiated prices.

Electricity Generation and Usage

Ireland's electricity generation mix is dominated by fossil fuels, with natural gas and coal-fired power plants accounting for the majority of the country's electricity generation.

However, the country has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix, with a goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Electricity demand in Ireland is primarily driven by residential and commercial sectors, which account for the majority of the country's electricity consumption. The industrial sector is also a significant consumer of electricity, particularly in energy-intensive industries such as manufacturing and mining.

In terms of electricity usage, the majority of electricity in Ireland is used for lighting, heating, and cooling, with appliances and electronics also contributing to electricity consumption.

The country has implemented a range of policies and programs aimed at reducing electricity consumption, including energy efficiency standards for buildings and appliances, and incentives for renewable energy generation.

Overall, while Ireland's electricity generation mix is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the country is making significant progress towards increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix.

As the country continues to transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy system, it is likely that electricity demand and usage patterns will continue to evolve, driven by changes in technology, policy, and consumer behaviour.

Renewable Energy Sources

Ireland has set a target of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030. Renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland due to their environmental benefits and the potential to earn money by selling excess electricity back to the grid.

Some of the most common renewable energy sources in Ireland include:

Wind Energy: Ireland has a significant wind energy potential due to its location on the Atlantic coast. Wind energy is the most widely used renewable energy source in Ireland, accounting for approximately 36% of electricity generation in 2020.

Solar Energy: Although Ireland is not known for its sunny weather, solar energy can still be an effective source of renewable energy. Solar panels can generate electricity even on cloudy days, and excess electricity can be sold back to the grid.

Hydro Energy: Hydro energy uses the power of water to generate electricity. Ireland has a number of hydroelectric power plants, and there is potential to develop more in the future.

Biomass Energy: Biomass energy uses organic matter such as wood, crops, or animal waste to generate electricity. This is a relatively new source of renewable energy in Ireland, but there is potential for growth in the future.

Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy uses heat from the earth to generate electricity. While this source of energy is not currently widely used in Ireland, there is potential for growth in the future.

Overall, renewable energy sources are becoming an increasingly important part of Ireland's energy mix.

As the country continues to work towards its renewable energy targets, it is likely that we will see more investment in renewable energy sources and more opportunities for individuals and businesses to sell excess electricity back to the grid.

Microgeneration

Microgeneration refers to the production of energy on a small scale, typically by households or small businesses. In Ireland, microgeneration is becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to generate their own energy and reduce their carbon footprint.

The Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS) is a government initiative that allows micro-generators to sell any excess electricity back to the national grid. This payment is called a Clean Export Guarantee (CEG). The scheme is designed to encourage the use of renewable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

To be eligible for the scheme, micro-generators must have a registered microgeneration device and be connected to the electricity grid. The device must also meet certain technical requirements, such as having a capacity of less than 50kW and complying with safety standards.

Under the MSS, micro-generators can receive payments for the electricity they generate and export to the grid. The amount paid is based on the current market rate for electricity and is negotiated between the electricity supplier and the consumer.

The payments are typically made quarterly and are credited to the consumer's electricity account.

Small-scale generators, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric generators, are commonly used for microgeneration in Ireland. These devices can be installed on rooftops, in gardens, or on small plots of land, making them accessible to a wide range of households and businesses.

Overall, the Microgeneration Support Scheme is a great way for households and small businesses to generate their own electricity and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Solar PV Systems

Solar PV systems are a popular way to generate electricity from renewable sources and sell excess energy back to the grid in Ireland. A solar PV system is made up of solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power homes or businesses.

The amount of electricity generated by a solar PV system depends on various factors, including the size of the system, the orientation of the panels, and the amount of sunlight available. In Ireland, a typical solar PV system can generate between 3,000 and 4,000 kWh of electricity per year.

To sell excess energy back to the grid, homeowners with solar PV systems must be registered with their electricity supplier and have a meter installed that can measure the amount of electricity they generate and export to the grid.

The electricity supplier will then pay the homeowner for the excess energy they generate and export, based on the agreed-upon rate.

It's worth noting that the rate paid for exported energy can vary between electricity suppliers, so it's important to shop around to get the best deal. Some electricity suppliers may also offer additional incentives or benefits for homeowners with solar PV systems, such as discounts on energy bills or free maintenance checks.

Overall, solar PV systems can be a great way to generate clean, renewable energy and earn money by selling excess energy back to the grid in Ireland. However, it's important to consider the initial cost of installing a solar PV system and the ongoing maintenance and upkeep costs before making a decision.

Wind Turbines

Wind turbines are a popular source of renewable energy in Ireland. They harness the power of the wind to generate electricity, which can then be sold back to the grid. The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has set out rules for connecting wind turbines to the grid and selling electricity back to it.

According to the CER, wind turbines can "spill" power back to the National Grid up to a limit of 500kW. However, this limit may be increased in special cases, depending on the site's infrastructure.

Wind turbine owners must also ensure that their turbines comply with the Grid Code, which sets out technical requirements for connecting to the grid.

To sell electricity back to the grid, wind turbine owners must register with the Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS). This scheme allows individuals and communities to sell their own renewable electricity into the national grid. The MSS is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Wind turbines can be a cost-effective way to generate electricity, especially in areas with high wind speeds. However, they can also be controversial due to their visual impact and potential impact on wildlife.

It is important for wind turbine owners to carefully consider the location of their turbines and to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Overall, wind turbines can be a valuable source of renewable energy in Ireland. By generating electricity from the wind, they can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a more sustainable energy system.

Hydroelectricity

Hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source that generates electricity by using the power of flowing water. It is one of the oldest forms of renewable energy and has been used for over a century. In Ireland, hydroelectricity is the second largest source of renewable energy, after wind power.

Hydroelectric power plants in Ireland are mostly located in the west, where there are many rivers and lakes. The largest hydroelectric power plant in Ireland is the Ardnacrusha power plant, located on the River Shannon. It has a capacity of 86 MW and can generate enough electricity to power over 80,000 homes.

Micro-hydro systems are also becoming popular in Ireland, especially in rural areas where there is no access to the national grid. Micro-hydro systems can generate electricity for a single home or a small community. They are usually installed in streams or small rivers and can generate up to 100 kW of electricity.

One of the advantages of hydroelectricity is that it is a clean and renewable source of energy. It does not produce any greenhouse gases or other pollutants. Another advantage is that it can provide a constant source of electricity, unlike solar and wind power which are dependent on weather conditions.

However, hydroelectricity also has its drawbacks. One of the main drawbacks is that it can have a negative impact on the environment. Building a hydroelectric power plant can disrupt the natural flow of a river and affect the habitats of fish and other aquatic animals. It can also lead to the displacement of local communities.

In conclusion, hydroelectricity is a renewable energy source that has both advantages and disadvantages. It is a clean and reliable source of electricity, but it can also have a negative impact on the environment. Micro-hydro systems are becoming more popular in Ireland, especially in rural areas.

Financial Incentives

There are financial incentives available for homeowners and businesses in Ireland who generate renewable energy and sell it back to the grid. One such incentive is the feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme, which provides a guaranteed payment for every unit of electricity generated by a renewable energy system.

The current FIT rate for solar PV systems up to 12 kW is 14.5 cents per kWh.

In addition to the FIT scheme, there is also the clean export guarantee, which is a scheme that pays homeowners for the electricity they export to the grid. Under this scheme, micro-generators can sell 30% of the excess electricity they produce and export it back to the grid.

The price that electricity will be sold at is being agreed upon by the government and energy companies, and it is expected to be announced soon.

It is worth noting that the FIT scheme is not a grant, and homeowners and businesses are required to pay for the installation of their renewable energy systems.

However, the FIT scheme can provide a source of income for those who generate excess electricity, and it can help to offset the cost of installing a renewable energy system.

In addition to the FIT scheme and the clean export guarantee, there are other financial incentives available for renewable energy systems in Ireland. These include grants and tax credits for the installation of renewable energy systems, as well as a floor price for electricity generated by certain types of renewable energy systems.

Overall, there are several financial incentives available for those who generate renewable energy and sell it back to the grid in Ireland. These incentives can help to offset the cost of installing a renewable energy system, and they can provide a source of income for those who generate excess electricity.

Smart Meters

Smart meters are a new type of electricity meter that can measure how much energy a household is using in real-time. They are part of a government initiative to modernize the electricity grid and help households save money on their energy bills. The rollout for smart meters in Ireland began in March 2021 and will continue until the end of 2024.

Smart meters are different from traditional meters because they can communicate with the electricity supplier and send information about energy usage automatically.

This means that households no longer need to provide meter readings manually, and their bills will be more accurate. Smart meters can also help households save money by providing information about energy usage in real-time, allowing them to adjust their energy consumption to save money.

To get a smart meter, households need to contact their electricity supplier and request one. The supplier will then arrange for a technician to install the meter. There is no cost to the household for the installation of a smart meter.

One of the benefits of smart meters is that they can support the growth of renewable energy in Ireland. Smart meters can measure how much energy a household is generating from solar panels or wind turbines and send that information back to the electricity supplier.

This means that households can sell any excess energy back to the grid and receive a payment for it. The Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) is the payment scheme for households that generate their own electricity and export it to the grid. The CEG guarantees that households will receive a fair price for the energy they export.

Overall, smart meters are a useful tool for households to help them save money on their energy bills and support the growth of renewable energy in Ireland. By providing real-time information about energy usage, households can adjust their energy consumption to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.

Selling Electricity Back to the Grid

In Ireland, it is possible to sell surplus energy generated by a renewable energy system back to the grid. This means that homeowners can receive payment for the excess electricity they generate and export to the national grid.

To sell electricity back to the grid, homeowners must have a special meter installed by their energy supplier.

This meter records the amount of electricity generated by the homeowner's renewable energy system and the amount of excess electricity that is exported to the grid.

There are a few options for selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland. Homeowners can either sell their surplus energy at the market value or at an agreed-upon rate with their energy supplier.

It's important to note that the market value of electricity can fluctuate, so it's worthwhile to do some research and negotiate a fair rate with the energy supplier.

Selling electricity back to the grid can be a great way for homeowners to offset the cost of their renewable energy system and even make some extra income.

However, it's important to keep in mind that the amount of money earned from selling electricity back to the grid will depend on the amount of surplus energy generated and the agreed-upon rate with the energy supplier.

In summary, selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland is possible with a special meter installed by the energy supplier. Homeowners have the option to sell their surplus energy at the market value or at an agreed-upon rate with their energy supplier.

While it can be a great way to offset the cost of a renewable energy system, the amount of money earned will depend on the amount of surplus energy generated and the agreed-upon rate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland is now possible for those who generate renewable energy. The government has introduced schemes that allow individuals and communities to sell their excess renewable electricity into the national grid, making it easier for people to invest in renewable energy sources.

While there are some costs associated with investing in renewable energy, such as the need to install a smart meter to sell excess electricity back to the grid, it can ultimately save money in the long run. By generating their own power, people can reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and avoid rising energy costs.

It's important to note that the price for exported electricity is negotiated between electricity suppliers and consumers, so it's essential to shop around for the best deal. Homeowners can also consider investing in battery storage systems to store excess energy for use later, rather than selling it back to the grid.

Overall, the ability to sell excess renewable energy back to the grid is a positive step towards a more sustainable future. By investing in renewable energy sources, individuals and communities can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to efforts to combat climate change.