Comparing Solar Panels in Ireland

Before we look at the types of solar panels available, let’s run over the basics of what a solar panel is. 

A solar panel is a device that captures sunlight and turns it into electricity. It's made up of many smaller units called solar cells — usually made from silicon — which work together to convert light from the sun into power we can use in our homes or businesses.

When sunlight hits a solar cell, it generates an electric current. This current is then harnessed and can be used to power anything from a small gadget to an entire house. The beauty of solar panels lies in their ability to provide clean, renewable energy — they don't produce harmful emissions or rely on finite resources like coal or gas.

Solar panels come in different shapes and sizes, designed to suit various needs and spaces. You can install them on roofs, in open fields, or even on water. Plus, they're built to last, often working for 25 years or more with little maintenance needed. So, understanding what a solar panel is and how it works is the first step towards embracing solar energy.

In Ireland, those looking to harness solar energy have three main types of solar panels to consider: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.

Each type has its unique features, benefits, and best use cases. Understanding the features of each solar panel type can help you compare your options and work out the most suitable for your property.

Monocrystalline

Monocrystalline solar panels are known for their high efficiency and sleek appearance. Made from single-crystal silicon, they have a distinctive black colour and are more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity compared with other solar panel types. 

Best for: The efficiency of monocrystalline solar panels makes them ideal for residential properties with limited roof space, as you'll need fewer panels to generate the same amount of power. They're perfect for homeowners aiming to maximise their energy production without compromising on aesthetics.

Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline solar panels are crafted from fragments of silicon crystals melted together. They have a blue, speckled look and offer a slightly lower efficiency at a more affordable price point than monocrystalline panels. 

Best for: Polycrystalline solar panels are a great option for larger roofs or spaces where the number of panels isn't a limiting factor. They strike a balance between cost and efficiency, making them suited for both residential and commercial properties looking to reduce energy costs without a large initial investment.

Thin-film

Thin-film solar panels stand out for their flexibility and lightweight design. They are made by layering photovoltaic material on a solid surface. Due to their manufacturing process, they can be made lighter and are more adaptable to different surfaces, including curved ones.  Best for: Thin-film panels work well in large commercial projects or on buildings where weight and aesthetics are significant considerations. They are best for situations where traditional panels might not be suitable, offering a versatile solution that can be applied to a variety of surfaces.

After exploring the differences between monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film solar panels, deciding between on-roof and integrated solar panel installations is another important consideration in your solar energy journey. 

• On-roof panels are mounted on top of your existing roof, offering ease of installation and flexibility for most homes. They can be easily adjusted or expanded, making them a versatile option. 

• Integrated solar panels, on the other hand, are part of the roof itself, creating a sleek and aesthetic appeal. Perfect for new constructions or when renovating a roof, they blend in seamlessly but might come with a higher upfront cost. Despite this, their modern look can enhance your property's value, providing a clean and integrated energy solution.

Taking a closer look at solar panels opens up a world of renewable energy wonders. Getting to know how these nifty devices work helps clear up how they supply our homes with green energy.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. Inside each panel are solar cells made mostly of silicon, which soaks up light. When sunlight hits these cells, it creates an electric current. This is called direct current (DC) electricity.

However, our homes need an alternating current (AC), which is where an inverter comes into play. It changes DC into AC, making the electricity usable in our homes. The power can light up our rooms, keep our fridges cold, or even be stored in solar batteries for a rainy day. If there’s extra electricity, you can send it back to the grid, sometimes getting a credit from your energy provider. 

The pros and cons of solar panel installation in Ireland

Many people wonder if installing solar panels in Ireland is worth it. And the truth is that, regardless of where you are in the world, solar panels come with pros and cons — but do the benefits outweigh the drawbacks? Let’s take a balanced look to help you work out if solar panels are a wise investment for your property.

Benefits of solar panels

So, why consider solar panels for your home in Ireland?

• Self-sufficient energy supply: One of the biggest benefits is generating your own energy. As the sun shines on your property, your panels convert it into electricity. Isn't it great to produce power right at home?

• Affordable energy generation: Initially, the installation is the main cost you'll face. After that, you might only need to spend on occasional maintenance or cleaning, which won’t break the bank.

• Return on investment: By reducing reliance on grid electricity, solar panels can lower your monthly bills. With energy costs on the rise, who wouldn’t want to save money each month? You could also consider options to sell back excess electricity, such as through the Government Microgeneration Scheme.

• Eco-friendly choice: Choosing solar panels means opting for a cleaner energy source. Solar power is renewable, so it’s kinder to our planet than burning fossil fuels.

  
  

Drawbacks of solar panels

What are the potential downsides?

• Cost: There’s no denying that solar panels come with a substantial upfront cost. However, technology is always advancing, and starting to bring those prices down. Not only that, but various financing options are also available to help manage these expenses.

• Daylight dependency: Solar panels need sunlight to work, meaning they don’t produce electricity at night. To manage this, why not look into solar batteries? They store energy during the day for use at night. Adjusting when you use electricity to peak sunlight hours can also help maximise your panels' efficiency.

  
  

Solar panel batteries

We mentioned that solar panel batteries can offer a way to get around the fact solar panels require daylight to generate electricity — but how? A solar panel battery provides the chance to store electricity for later. If you choose not to sell excess power back to Ireland’s electricity grid, you can store it in your solar panel battery to help power your home during the evening and night.

Your solar PV panels will likely have a lifespan of 25-30 years. Solar panels are generally low maintenance, and Ireland’s tendency to rain means you shouldn’t need to clean your solar panels very often! However, we recommend giving them an annual wipe-down to ensure no dirt or debris stops them from working properly. 

It’s possible to do this yourself using a soft cloth or sponge with an extended handle to wipe the panels without climbing a ladder. Remember to turn the whole solar panel system off before you start cleaning, and hire a professional if you don’t feel confident doing it yourself.

Solar panels are a great choice if you want to reduce your bills and carbon footprint. And because the best solar PV panels don’t require direct sunlight to generate electricity, they’re a helpful investment whether you live in the South of France or Sligo.

In fact, solar panels have been known to overheat in warm countries. So the cooler temperatures in Ireland are ideal for efficient operation. Solar panels can even be efficient in the depths of winter because of the albedo effect, which reflects sunlight off the snow.

The energy efficiency of your solar panels in Ireland is affected by four main factors:

It takes time and effort to trawl through a manufacturer’s website, comparing prices and reviews. At SpotDif, we’ll match you with the best solar PV panels in Ireland, so making the right decision is a breeze.

To save you time and money, we’ll ask you a few questions about your solar panel requirements. It only takes a minute to find quotes from major solar panel providers, so you can start saving the planet and reducing your bills in seconds.

Fill out our simple solar panel form and start comparing options from top solar providers across Ireland.