Irish Home Solar Panel Grant Applications Double Since March Amid Energy Crisis

Irish homeowners have significantly increased purchases of rooftop solar panels since March, driven by the energy crisis. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) reported nearly double the grant applications for Photovoltaic Solar Panels in March compared to last year. In the first three months of this year, applications exceeded 10,000, up from just over 6,000 in the same period last year. March was the first month to see over 4,000 PV solar grant applications.

Ciaran Byrne, SEAI Director of National Retrofit, noted 13,500 applications so far this year, compared to 8,900 in the first four months last year and 7,300 in the comparative period two years prior. Solar Ireland CEO Ronan Power reported over a 30% increase in purchases or commitments in the domestic solar market, with some inquiries up over 100%. Michael Flaherty from Leixlip installed panels due to the oil crisis, hoping for savings.

Eamon Murphy of Activ8 Solar Energy confirmed a doubling of interest this spring, similar to demand seen during Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The SEAI also saw a surge in applications after Minister for Energy Darragh O'Brien announced increased grants for home energy upgrades and new standalone grants for windows and doors. First-quarter grant applications to SEAI totaled 30,000, an increase of approximately 185%.

The department and SEAI are exploring plug-in solar panels for apartments, addressing regulatory and safety issues. The Tánaiste emphasized government efforts to empower citizens in their energy situation, especially if the crisis extends into winter, by supporting self-help for energy independence.