Recently, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) announced that the country's residential solar photovoltaic (PV) subsidy policy for 2026 has been officially confirmed, maintaining the maximum subsidy amount at €1800.

The subsidy scheme announced by SEAI uses a tiered calculation method, taking into account the needs of households with different installation capacities. The first 2 kWp of installed capacity will receive a subsidy of €700 per kWp, while the capacity between 2 kWp and 4 kWp will receive a subsidy of €200 per kWp, with an overall subsidy cap of €1800. For example, a household installing a 2.5 kWp system will receive a €1400 subsidy for the first 2 kWp, and an additional €100 for the remaining 0.5 kWp, totaling €1500.

Regarding eligibility, the policy clearly covers residential properties, including those owned by private landlords, owner-management companies, and approved housing bodies (AHBs). Key requirements include that the property must have a Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), have been built before 2021 and be occupied, and the same MPRN property cannot apply for the subsidy more than once. SEAI emphasizes that choosing a registered installer, ensuring proper construction, and submitting complete documentation are crucial for receiving the subsidy.

In terms of process management, applicants must complete and receive approval for their subsidy application before construction begins.  Construction must be completed and all documentation submitted within eight months of approval, and the contractor must be an SEAI-registered installer. For different needs, households can choose two application methods: families applying independently will receive the subsidy directly after completion and submission of documents; families requiring multiple energy upgrades simultaneously can use a "one-stop service" where a professional agency handles the entire process, and the subsidy will be directly deducted from the project costs upfront.

An SEAI representative stated that the microgeneration support scheme not only lowers the investment threshold for household solar PV through financial subsidies but also ensures project quality through standardized installation standards. The stable subsidy policy provides clear expectations for household investments. It is estimated that families installing a 4 kWp solar PV system can recoup their costs in approximately 5 to 7 years after deducting the subsidy, and in the long term, they can achieve energy independence and reduce carbon emissions. The continuation of this policy will further promote the achievement of Ireland's renewable energy development goals.