What is Solar Lease / PPA?
Financing options where a company installs solar panels on your roof and you pay a monthly fee or reduced electricity rate.
Quick Answer
Solar leases and PPAs are not yet widespread in Ireland for residential customers, though some companies are beginning to offer them. Most Irish homeowners purchase their systems outright or use personal loans. The SEAI grant (up to €2,100) and zero VAT make outright purchase attractive, and green loans from Irish banks offer competitive rates of 3–6% for solar installations.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
Solar Lease / PPA Explained
A solar lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a financing arrangement where a third party owns and installs solar panels on your property. Under a lease, you pay a fixed monthly fee. Under a PPA, you buy the electricity at a discounted rate. In both cases, the company handles installation, maintenance, and monitoring. At the end of the contract (typically 15–25 years), you may be able to buy the system at a reduced price.
How Does Solar Lease / PPA Work in Ireland?
Solar leases and PPAs are not yet widespread in Ireland for residential customers, though some companies are beginning to offer them. Most Irish homeowners purchase their systems outright or use personal loans. The SEAI grant (up to €2,100) and zero VAT make outright purchase attractive, and green loans from Irish banks offer competitive rates of 3–6% for solar installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ireland?
Buying is usually better in Ireland because you keep the SEAI grant (up to €2,100), benefit from zero VAT, and own the system outright. Leasing gives up long-term savings for no upfront cost.
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John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the Irish solar energy market since 2023. He fact-checks all content against official SEAI data and maintains relationships with SEAI-registered installers across Ireland.