Solterra
Solterra distributes high-quality solar panel systems thought Ireland. We both supply and fit these high grade panels. All our solar panels can be integrated into buildings, (BIPV), on rooftops, or installed separately on the ground.
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30-year product warranty
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30-year efficiency guarantee
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87% power guarantee after 30 years
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Fully suppy and fit service
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Fire Class A
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Salt, mist, dust, and ammonia resistant
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Glass/Glass Panels 5.000 hours testing
Cradle to Cradle
silver certified
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost?
The cost of installing solar panels in Ireland can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the system, the type of panels used, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the property.
As of recently, the average cost of installing a residential solar panel system in Ireland ranges from €4,000 to €12,000, depending on the size of the system and the type of panels used.
It's worth noting that there are government grants available in Ireland to help offset the cost of installing solar panels. The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) offers grants of up to €2,400 for the installation of solar PV systems for homeowners.
It's also important to consider the long-term savings that can be achieved through the installation of solar panels. A well-designed and properly installed solar panel system can significantly reduce your electricity bills and potentially pay for itself over time.
Is planning permission required to install solar panels on my rooftop?
As of 2022, houses, regardless of location, may install unlimited solar panels on their rooftops without any requirement for planning permission (subject to certain conditions).
Exemptions apply to rooftops of industrial buildings, business premises, community and educational buildings, places of worship, health buildings, libraries, certain public utility sites and farms
Certain restrictions continue to apply, including developments near certain aviation sites, protected structures and Architectural Conservation Areas.
How much energy can I expect to generate from solar panels?
The amount of energy you can expect to generate from solar panels depends on a number of factors, such as the size and efficiency of your solar panels, the orientation and angle of your panels, the amount of sunlight your location receives, and the time of year.
According to the Irish Solar Energy Association, the average annual solar irradiation (the amount of sunlight that falls on a given area) in Ireland is around 900-1200 kilowatt-hours per square meter per year (kWh/m2/yr), with the highest levels in the southeast and the lowest in the northwest.
Assuming you have a standard solar panel with an efficiency of around 15-20%, you can expect to generate around 120-160 kWh per year per square meter of solar panels in Ireland. So, for example, if you have a 10 square meter solar panel system, you could generate around 1200-1600 kWh per year.
It's also worth noting that the amount of energy generated may be higher during the summer months and conversely lower over the winter period.
Will my solar panels be effective even on cloudy days?
Solar panels can still produce electricity on cloudy days, but their efficiency may be reduced. This is because solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, and the amount of sunlight that reaches the panels on a cloudy day is lower compared to that of a sunnier day.
However, solar panels can still produce electricity even on cloudy days, especially if they are high-quality and designed to work well in low-light conditions.
In general, solar panels are still a viable option for generating electricity in Ireland, as they can still produce a significant amount of power even on cloudy days. However, it is important to note that the overall efficiency and output of the panels may be lower than in sunnier regions, and this should be taken into consideration when planning and designing a solar energy system.
Are there any government grants available to help toward the cost of solar panel installation?
There is a grant available for homeowners through the Better Energy Homes scheme, which provides financial support for a range of energy efficiency measures, including the installation of solar PV panels. The grant amount varies depending on the size of the system and the type of property.
It is worth noting that the availability of grants and incentives can vary over time, so it is important to check the SEAI website (https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/solar-electricity-grant/) for the current information.
What is the average lifespan of solar panels, and how often do they need to be maintained?
The lifespan of solar panels can depend on a number of factors, such as the quality of the panels, the installation method, and the level of maintenance provided. However, in general, most solar panels have a lifespan of between 25-30 years, and higher-quality panels can last up to 40 years with the right care.
Solar panels require very little maintenance over their lifespan. They do not have any moving parts that need to be serviced regularly. However, it is essential to keep the panels clean to maximize their efficiency. Dust and debris can reduce the amount of sunlight that the panels can absorb, leading to lower energy production.
Because we have frequent rainfall in Ireland, cleaning the panels isn’t as necessary when compared to other countries with less rainfall. However, it is still recommended to clean the panels at least once or twice a year to maintain optimal efficiency.
It’s also just as important to make sure that your panels are free from any shading, as even partial shading can significantly reduce their output. Essentially, it’s important to keep your solar panels clean, and free from shading to ensure optimal efficiency.
Can I sell excess energy generated by my solar panels back to the grid in Ireland?
Yes, it is possible to sell excess energy generated by your solar panels back to the grid in Ireland. This process is known as "net metering" or "net feed-in tariff".
Under the net metering scheme, the excess energy generated by your solar panels is fed back into the grid, and you receive a credit on your electricity bill for the amount of electricity you generate. This credit can then be used to offset the cost of the electricity you consume when your solar panels are not generating enough power.
To participate in the net metering scheme, you will need to contact your electricity supplier and discuss the process of installing a solar panel system and connecting it to the grid. Your supplier will be able to provide you with information on their net metering policies, the rates at which you can sell your excess energy, and the technical requirements for connecting your solar panel system to the grid.
It is worth noting that the net metering scheme is subject to certain limitations, including a cap on the amount of electricity that can be exported to the grid each year. However, even with these limitations, selling excess energy back to the grid can be a cost-effective way to reduce your energy bills and contribute to the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy system.
Do you supply and fit solar panels?
Yes, we are a supply and installtion company?