Solar Panels Installers

Solar panels are a practical and reliable form of energy production that can significantly reduce your energy bills by thousands each year. The long-term savings of solar panels are second to none, making it one of the most practical renewable energy solutions to install and maintain. Homeowners, small businesses, and industrial environments alike can all benefit from advanced solar technology, reducing their carbon footprint in line with European targets while guaranteeing their energy supply at a fraction of the cost of traditional energy sources. K Higgins Electrial are installing solar panels throughout Galway, Clare, Limerick, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath and surrounding counties.

K Higgins Electrical Galway is qualified to solar panels installer both ground-mounted and rooftop solar PV panels tailored to different types of buildings and their unique energy requirements. Solar PV is ideal for new builds as well as existing homes or commercial/industrial buildings undergoing energy upgrades. In some cases, solar Panels can increase BER ratings and the property value where they are installed.

Ground-Mounted Solar vs. Rooftop Solar Panels Installation

When considering solar PV, it’s important to understand the differences between ground-mounted solar panels and rooftop solar panels.

Ground-Mounted Panels:

These solar panels are installed on the ground, usually in open spaces such as your back garden or a field. They can be mounted on a fixed tilt or designed with a tracking system that follows the sun’s path to maximise energy production throughout the day. Ground-mounted systems are highly efficient and flexible in terms of placement, allowing optimal orientation and tilt.

Rooftop Panels:

As the name suggests, these solar panels are installed on the roofs of buildings. They utilise the existing structure of the roof to support the solar panels, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings. Rooftop systems are typically easier and cheaper to install because they don’t require additional structures for support.

Reasons to Choose Rooftop Solar Panels Installation

Space Efficiency:
Rooftop solar panels make use of existing roof space, making them ideal for urban environments where open ground space is limited.

Cost-Effective Installation:
Leveraging the existing structure of the roof can reduce the costs associated with building additional support structures.

Aesthetic Integration:
Modern rooftop panels can be integrated into the roof design, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the property.

Protection of Roof:
Solar panels can also provide an extra layer of protection to the roof from the elements, potentially extending its lifespan.

Reasons to Choose Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Installation

Optimal Placement:
Ground-mounted panels can be placed in optimal locations to capture the maximum amount of sunlight, free from the shading issues that might affect rooftop panels.

Scalability:
They are easier to expand if you need to increase your energy production capacity in the future.

Efficiency:
With the option of tracking systems, ground-mounted panels can be more efficient in capturing solar energy throughout the day.

Maintenance:
Ground-mounted systems are generally easier to access for cleaning and maintenance, which can enhance their performance and longevity.

Benefits of Solar Panels

Investing in solar PV offers a range of significant benefits:

Cost Savings:
Solar PV can dramatically reduce electricity bills, offering savings of potentially thousands each year. Over the lifetime of the system, the financial savings can be substantial. Our Solar panels installers are working throughout Galway, Clare, Roscomon, Limerick, Westmeath, Tippeary

Energy Independence:
By generating your own electricity, you become less reliant on the grid, providing greater energy security and protection against rising energy prices.

Environmental Impact:
Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of power that reduces carbon emissions, helping to combat climate change and reduce your carbon footprint.

Property Value:
Installing solar panels can increase the value of your property. Energy-efficient homes and buildings are increasingly attractive to buyers and can command higher market prices.

Government Incentives:
Various grants and incentives are available to help offset the initial cost of installation. In Ireland, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants for eligible customers, making the transition to solar energy more affordable. We are working throughout Galway, Clare, Roscommon, Limerick, Tipperary. Call us now for a quote.

Low Maintenance:
Solar PV systems require minimal maintenance, especially when installed by qualified professionals like K Higgins Electrical & Solar PV. Routine checks and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep the system running efficiently.

How Much Can You Save With Solar Panels?

Cutting electricity costs in Ireland with solar panels for your home or business is a clever and sustainable option to continuously rising energy prices.

Rising energy costs in Ireland have put a strain on household budgets, making it more important than ever to find sustainable solutions for reducing electricity bills. Solar panels offer an effective way to take control of your energy costs while contributing to a greener future. With the ability to generate your own electricity, cut back on rising energy expenses, and even sell excess energy back to the grid, solar panels are a wise investment for homes and businesses alike.

This guide will break down the cost of solar panels, explain potential solar panel savings, and outline how much you can save on your energy bills by installing solar power.

What Do Solar Panels Cost?

The cost of solar panels in Galway depends on the size of the system, the number of panels, and whether you choose to include a solar storage battery. After the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) grant, which can reduce costs by up to €1,00 the average household’s typical outlay ranges from €4500 to €10,000.
Factors Influencing Solar Panel Cost

System Size: Larger systems generate more electricity but cost more upfront.
Battery Storage: Adding a solar battery can increase costs by €1300–€2500 but improves energy efficiency.
Roof Orientation: South-facing roofs optimise energy production, reducing overall costs.

How to Save Money With Solar Panels

For most households, solar panels pay for themselves within 4–5 years. After this period, you enjoy free electricity for the remaining lifespan of the panels, which typically last 25 years or more.

How Solar Panels Can Cut Electricity Bills

Electricity Reduction: Solar panels can cover 75–100% of a household’s energy needs.
Feed-in Tariffs: Sell excess electricity back to the grid and offset costs further.
Environmental Benefits: Reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2,000 kg of CO₂ annually, equivalent to thousands of driving kilometres.

Examples of Solar Panel Installations

Two-Bedroom Terraced House

System Size: 3.5 kWp (8 panels)
Cost After Grant: €5,200
Annual Savings: €866
Payback Period: 6 years
CO₂ Reduction: 1,000 kg/year

Three-Bedroom Semi-Detached House

System Size: 4.4 kWp (10 panels)
Cost After Grant: €5,800
Annual Savings: €1000
Payback Period: 5.5 years
CO₂ Reduction: 1,300 kg/year

SEAI Solar Panel Grants in Ireland

The SEAI grant makes solar power more accessible, offering up to €1,800 for eligible installations. This subsidy significantly lowers the initial investment, making solar panels a cost-effective choice for Irish households and businesses. To find out more more SEAI grants for solar, click here.

Long-Term Benefits of Going Solar

By investing in solar energy, you’re not only reducing your energy bills but also making a lasting impact on the environment. With a lifespan of 25+ years, solar panels provide decades of clean, renewable energy. The sooner you make the switch, the sooner you start saving.

For a personalised quote and detailed analysis of solar panel savings, contact us today. Take the first step towards energy independence and a more sustainable future.

Should I Buy a Solar Battery?

Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system can enhance your energy efficiency and savings. Whether a solar battery is the right choice for you depends on your household’s energy consumption patterns, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a detailed look at the benefits and potential savings of installing a solar battery.

Benefits of Solar Batteries:

Maximise energy usage.
Reduce reliance on the grid during peak hours.
Improve energy independence for evening and night-time use.

Maximise Your Solar Panel Savings

Any excess electricity your solar panels generate is sent back to the grid without a battery. A battery stores this surplus energy for later use, meaning you can power your home with solar energy even after the sun has set. This reduces your reliance on the grid and maximises the return on your investment.

Energy Independence

A solar battery gives you greater control over your energy usage. During power outages, many systems equipped with battery storage can provide backup power, keeping essential appliances running and ensuring greater energy security.

Avoid Peak Electricity Rates

In Ireland, energy providers often charge higher rates during peak demand hours. By using energy stored in your battery, you can avoid these higher costs and enjoy additional savings.

Reduce Carbon Footprint

Using stored solar energy instead of grid electricity (often from non-renewable sources) helps lower your household’s carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.

When a Solar Battery Makes Sense

If You’re Away During the Day

Homes with residents who are typically out during daylight hours (e.g., working professionals or students) benefit the most from battery storage. Instead of sending excess energy to the grid, you can store it and use it in the evening when your energy needs are highest.

For Evening Energy Use

Families with high evening electricity usage—such as cooking, heating, or using multiple devices—can significantly reduce their electricity bills by tapping into stored solar energy.

For High-Efficiency Energy Management

Batteries smooth out peaks and troughs in your energy usage. For example, if you suddenly use high-demand appliances like an oven or washing machine, a battery can supplement the energy supply from your panels without drawing power from the grid.

Cost of Solar Batteries in Ireland

A standard solar battery (around 5.1kWh capacity) typically costs between €1,500 and €2,200 when added to a solar PV system. This price includes the hybrid inverter required to connect the battery to your system. While this may increase your upfront solar panel cost, it can significantly reduce your reliance on grid electricity over the battery’s lifespan, saving money in the long run.

Payback Period for Solar Batteries

The payback period for a solar battery depends on your electricity usage and energy prices. For households with high evening energy needs or those facing increasing electricity rates, the additional investment in a battery often pays for itself within 7–10 years. This is especially true for households that qualify for the SEAI grant for their solar PV system, which offsets some of the initial cost.

Alternatives to Solar Batteries

If a battery isn’t the right fit for your home or budget, there are other ways to make the most of excess solar energy:

Sell Energy Back to the Grid: Feed-in tariffs allow you to sell unused electricity to your energy provider, creating a small income stream from your solar panels.
Use a Hot Water Diverter: This device redirects surplus electricity to heat water, offering an alternative energy storage method.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging: Excess energy can be used to charge an EV, reducing your reliance on the grid.

Is a Solar Battery Worth It for You?

Deciding whether to add a solar battery comes down to your unique energy needs and financial goals. A solar battery is an excellent addition if you prioritise reducing your electricity bills, achieving greater energy independence, or minimising your environmental impact. However, if your household is home most of the day or has lower energy needs in the evening, a battery may not be necessary.
To find out whether a solar battery is right for your home, we recommend a personalised consultation and detailed quote tailored to your energy usage. This will ensure you get the most value from your investment in renewable energy.

Find out more about Solar PV for your home or business

At K Higgins Electrical & Solar PV, we are committed to helping you transition to renewable energy seamlessly. Whether you’re interested in ground-mounted or rooftop solar panels, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to learn more about available grants and how we can help you achieve energy independence while contributing to a greener future. We are now working throughout Galway, Limerick, Clare and Westmeath.