Welcome for new solar panel grants

There's been a welcome from a Government TD for grant supports announced as part of last week's budget.

Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth says the supports, of up to €2,400 for the installation of solar PV panels, is good news for locals.

Businesses, public organisations and community groups can avail of the grants under the scheme, which will be administered by the SEAI.

She says at current electricity prices, a business could expect to save up to €3,000 per annum from a solar PV system supported under this scheme.

Deputy Smyth said, “This new support scheme is part of a wider roll-out of initiatives to make the installation of solar PV easier and more cost effective for homeowners, businesses and public bodies.

“With these grants, more businesses, organisations and community groups can start to take greater control of their energy costs by harnessing the power of the sun – providing for their own needs first, with the additional bonus of getting paid for excess energy that they might produce. With upcoming changes to planning exemptions, simpler grid application routes, export payment announcements, and capital supports from SEAI, it’s an ideal time for anybody to consider going solar to save money and to help reduce our emissions.”