Solar Grants in Down
SEAI grants do not apply in Northern Ireland
The SEAI is a Republic of Ireland body. Down is part of Northern Ireland and has separate solar support schemes.
County Down is the strongest county in Northern Ireland for solar energy, benefiting from its sheltered eastern position on the Irish Sea coast. With around 1,400 sunshine hours and low rainfall of 850mm, a 4kWp system generates approximately 3,480 kWh per year — comparable to many Republic of Ireland counties.
Solar Support Schemes in Northern Ireland
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
NI energy suppliers must offer a tariff for surplus solar electricity exported to the grid. Rates vary by supplier — check with your provider for current SEG rates.
0% VAT on Solar
Residential solar panel installations in Northern Ireland are zero-rated for VAT, in line with the wider UK policy. This saves approximately 20% compared to the standard VAT rate.
ECO4 Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) may provide funding for solar PV in eligible lower-income households. Contact your energy supplier to check eligibility.
Future NI Schemes
The NI Executive has signalled potential new solar support programmes as part of its energy strategy. Check ni.gov.uk for the latest announcements.
Solar Potential in Down
Solar Yield
4kWp Output
Sunshine
Rainfall
Household Coverage
Region
Down vs Nearby ROI Counties
Compare Down's solar potential with Republic of Ireland counties that benefit from the SEAI grant.
| County | Solar Yield | 4kWp Output | SEAI Grant | Savings/yr | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Down (NI) | 870 kWh/kWp | 3,480 kWh | Not eligible | — | — |
| Limerick | 869 kWh/kWp | 3,476 kWh | €1,800 | €966/yr | 5.4 yrs |
| Westmeath | 871 kWh/kWp | 3,484 kWh | €1,800 | €969/yr | 5.4 yrs |
| Roscommon | 867 kWh/kWp | 3,468 kWh | €1,800 | €964/yr | 5.4 yrs |
| Louth | 881 kWh/kWp | 3,524 kWh | €1,800 | €980/yr | 5.3 yrs |
| Offaly | 881 kWh/kWp | 3,524 kWh | €1,800 | €980/yr | 5.3 yrs |
Solar Panels in Down
Full county guide with local solar data and installer info.
SEAI Grant Guide (ROI)
Complete guide to SEAI grants — for Republic of Ireland homeowners.
Solar Grant FAQs — Down
Can I get the SEAI grant in Down?
No. The SEAI grant is only available in the Republic of Ireland (26 counties). Down is in Northern Ireland, which has separate solar support schemes administered by the NI Executive and UK government.
Are solar panels worth it in Down without the SEAI grant?
Yes. A 4kWp system in Down generates approximately 3,480 kWh per year, covering 83% of average household use. While you don't receive the SEAI grant, NI has its own support schemes including the Smart Export Guarantee for selling excess electricity.
What solar support is available in Northern Ireland?
NI homeowners can benefit from: the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for selling surplus electricity to the grid, 0% VAT on residential solar installations, and potential future NI-specific grant schemes. The UK government's Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) may also provide support for eligible households.
How much do solar panels cost in Down?
Solar panel costs in Northern Ireland are comparable to the rest of the UK — typically £5,000–£8,000 for a 4kWp system at 0% VAT. Without the SEAI grant (which doesn't apply in NI), the payback period is longer than in ROI, but panels still provide significant long-term savings.
Get Solar Quotes in Down
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