'Keeping a close eye' - Ireland braced for potential storm within days amid update
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20 Oct 2025
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20 Oct 2025
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Waterford homeowners have invested almost €26 million in solar panels over the past five and a half years, with one in every 21 households now powering their homes with the sun, according to new figures.
The analysis by EnergyEfficiency.ie, based on SEAI and Census data, found that around 4.75% of homes in Waterford - some 2,263 in total - have received grants for solar systems since 2020.
The surge in demand marks a huge jump from just 95 installations in 2020 to more than 760 in 2024, as homeowners embrace renewable energy to cut costs and future-proof their properties.
Over €5.1 million in grants were provided through the SEAI's Solar PV Scheme to help offset installation costs, while Waterford households collectively invested €25.8 million of their own money in solar systems and battery storage.
The total solar capacity installed across Waterford now exceeds 12,400 kWp, enough to power thousands of homes.
The study also found that system sizes have grown significantly, with the average home setup increasing from 3.67 kWp in 2020 to 6.29 kWp this year. For context, a 6 kWp system typically includes around 14 panels.
READ MORE | ‘Extremely distressing’ - Waterford pensioners in panic amid 'serious' back garden issue
"Ireland is making strong progress in renewable energy, with households installing larger solar systems than ever before," said Briain Kelly of EnergyEfficiency.ie. "Our analysis shows that solar uptake has risen sharply despite reductions in grants over the past two years.
"This is being driven by falling installation costs, rising energy prices, and growing awareness of the benefits of solar. Many homeowners with solar save over €1,000 a year on their energy bills, and with several energy companies increasing rates this month, we expect even more households to make the switch in the coming year."
Nationally, more than 81,000 households have received SEAI Solar PV grants since 2020, with a total spend exceeding €914 million.
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