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Professional Wicklow Solar Panel Installation Service
GWEC is Wicklow's choice for professional solar panel installation. We specialize in solar solutions for both residential and commercial properties, ensuring maximum energy efficiency and savings. Our experienced technicians handle everything from system design to installation with precision and care. Start your journey to a greener future with a reliable and cost-effective solar power system tailored to your needs.
If you have questions about whether installing solar panels in Wicklow is right for your house give us a call. With our free consultation we can help you determine installation costs and how much you could save on your electricity bills.
Why Choose GWEC? Our Principles.
The client always comes first
At GWEC, our primary focus is on exceeding client expectations. We prioritize open communication, understanding your needs, and delivering tailored electrical solutions to ensure your satisfaction.
Professionalism
With a team of qualified experts, GWEC upholds the highest standards of professionalism. From project planning to execution, expect reliable and efficient electrical services that reflect our commitment to excellence.
Respect
We treat your property with utmost respect and care. At GWEC, we value the trust you place in us and ensure a considerate approach to both your premises and your time.
Safety
Safety is our top priority. Our certified team adheres to rigorous safety protocols and guidelines, providing peace of mind while delivering electrical solutions that maintain the highest industry standards.
No Bullsh*t
We believe in open and honest communication. If there's any delay or challenge, we won't shy away from addressing it promptly, ensuring transparency and minimizing disruptions to keep your project on track.
Enjoyment
At GWEC, we foster a positive and enjoyable work environment. Our team's passion for electrical work reflects in the exceptional service we provide, ensuring your experience with us is smooth and satisfying.
How Much Can You Save With Solar?
Saving 50% or more on your electricity bills isn't unusual when you install a solar pv system. How mcuh you save with a solar installation is dependent on the size of your solar pv installation and how much your energy costs are to begin with.
Energy Usage & Cost
The average household uses 4,200 kWh per year of energy according to Selectra. Using an annual rate of 23.82c per kWh the annual cost of electricity is ~€1000.00 per year
Electricity Cost
Annual Usage: 4,200 kWh/year
Electricity Rate: 23.82c per kWh
Annual Cost: 4,200 x 23.82c = €1000.44
Energy & Cost Savings in County Wicklow
Wgenerating 1411 hrs of sunshine each year. Assuming you installed a 3kW solar PV system the savings would look like this.
3kW x 1411 = 4,233 kW
As we all know, households don’t only use electricity in the daytime. Assuming 50% of that is used during the day time.
4200 kWh/year * 0.5 = 2100 kWh / year of energy savings.
Savings Per Year Without a Battery = €0.2382 * 2100 = ~€500/year
If you have a battery and assuming you store and use an additional 40% (batteries are not 100% efficient) you will generate:
4200 kWh/year * 0.4 = 1680 kWh
Savings Per Year With a Battery = (2100 + 1680) * €0.2382 = ~€900/year
If you opt not to install a battery Ireland has feed in tariff programs which allows you to sell excess energy back into the grid. There are only some providers who allow you to do this but if you opt in you can sell excess power back to the grid and receive a credit from your energy provider.
Savings Per Year On a Feed In Tariff Program = 4200 * €0.2382 = €1000/year
Did You Know?
Ireland has over 100,000 houses that have solar PV panels installed? Every year more of your neighbors are choosing to join the rooftop revolution powering more and more homes and reducing greenhouse gases.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
The cost of installing solar panels has dropped considerably over the past 30 years as shown by this chart
Cost of Solar Panels Based on the Size of the System
Solar Panel Installation Grants Available In Ireland
Residential Solar Panel Grants
The Solar Electricity Grant (seai grant) provides a grant to help with the cost of installing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for your home. SEAI grants are available to all homeowners in Ireland.
- 1 kWp = €800
- 2 kWp = €1,600
- 3 kWp = €1,850
- 4 kWp = €2,100*
Using our example of 3kWh above the cost would be €4,500 - €1,850 = €2650. With average savings of €500/year they would be paid off in a little over five years. Solar panels typically last 25 years.
*The grant is changing from a maximum of €2,100 to €1,800 on January 1st 2025.
Grants are available to all homeowners across Ireland. Your house has to have been built before Dec 2020. For more details visit the seai grant page.
Commercial Solar Panel Grants
SEAI offers up to €162,600 for commercial solar panel installations such as businesses, farms, schools, community centres or other non-profit organisations.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels generally last 25 to 30 years. This lifespan is associated with their efficiency rather than the panels not working. Assuming they don't get damaged by extreme weather, such as hail solar PV panels can last beyond 30 years.
Solar Panel Lifespan
- Manufacturer Warranty: Most solar panels come with a performance warranty of 20 to 25 years, ensuring they produce a significant percentage (typically 80-90%) of their original efficiency during this time.
- Efficiency Degradation: Over time, solar panels slowly lose their ability to generate electricity, typically at a rate of 0.5% to 1% per year, depending on the panel type and quality. Assuming an energy degradation of 0.5 - 1% every year after 30 years it may make sense to replace them.
- Replacement Timeline: Inverters and other solar panel system components typically need replacement every 10-15 years. These components make up 10-20% of the overall costs.
With proper care and maintenance, solar panels can provide clean energy for decades, even beyond their warranty period.
What Happens If You Need To Replace Your Roof Before You Have To Replace Your Solar Panels?
It’s not uncommon for roofs to have to be replaced before the solar panel installation needs to be replaced. This isn’t an overly complicated process.
Qualified solar panel installers like GWEC will carefully remove the panels, inverters, racking systems, and wiring. Each component is labeled and stored to ensure proper reinstallation.
Once the roof is replaced the solar installer returns to reinstall the system, ensuring all components are in proper working order. Testing is performed to verify the system is generating power as expected.
Is Wicklow County a Good Area for Solar Panel Installations?
Sunlight Levels:
- As far as Ireland is concerned Wicklow County is one of the sunniest county in Ireland averaging close to 4 hours of sunlight each day.
- While it's less sunny than southern Europe, solar panels can still perform well due to advances in technology that work effectively in cloudy conditions.
Latitude Impact:
- Ireland's high latitude results in longer daylight hours in summer, which boosts solar energy production during that time.
- Winter production is lower, but the system can still contribute significantly to annual energy needs. Solar PV systems work year round
What Are The Benefits of Installing Solar PV?
Financial Benefits
Reduced Energy Bills
- Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, reducing your reliance on the grid.
- Excess energy can be sold back to the grid via Ireland's feed in tariff program.
Long-Term Savings
- While the upfront cost can be high, solar panels typically pay for themselves within 5–10 years, depending on your location and energy usage.
- Solar panels have a lifespan of 25+ years, offering decades of free or reduced-cost electricity after the system is paid off.
Protection Against Rising Energy Costs
- By generating your own electricity, you're shielded from fluctuating and rising utility prices.
Environmental Benefits
Reduced Carbon Footprint
- Solar panels produce clean, renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Installing solar significantly lowers your household or business's greenhouse gas emissions.
Contribution to a Sustainable Future
- Solar energy is a key part of combating climate change and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Increased Property Value
- Homes with solar panels are often more attractive to buyers and can sell for 4–6% more than comparable homes without solar.
Low Maintenance
- Solar panels require minimal upkeep:some text
- Occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris.
- Inspections to ensure the system is functioning properly.
- Panels are durable and designed to withstand various weather conditions.
Need an electrical contractor?
Contact GWEC today for a quote.