Donal Hickey: Some reasons people opt for solar panels — and what's putting some people off
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The growth of sun-generated power here in the last dozen years, or so, is quite spectacular, with more than 60,000 homes now boasting rooftop panels. Experts are describing this as revolutionary, with solar the country’s fastest-growing renewable power source.
Latest research shows that more than 83% of households in Ireland are thinking about installing solar panels in the future, with 71% of those considering making the investment by the end of the decade.
So, the trend is likely to continue. According to the University College Cork energy research centre, one million Irish homes have roof space and sun-orientation for 10 solar panels.
William Walsh, Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEAI) chief executive, has revealed the portion of electricity generated by renewable sources has grown to almost 40%, up from just 20% in 2012.
However, over 300 onshore windfarms, expansion in offshore windfarms and large-scale solar generation must lead to 80% renewable electricity by 2030 to meet our carbon targets.
That, surely, is a massively ambitious goal, but a recent survey of 3,000 homeowners and renters found there is growing interest in solar energy, with almost 100% of respondents viewing it in a positive light, and a third wanting to get panels in the next two years.
The Energy Efficiency Solar Energy Survey also highlighted some concerns that remain among the public, however, such as installation costs and views about the Irish climate.
When asked what is preventing them from going solar sooner, 64% said the biggest barrier is high upfront costs, despite grants and other incentives such as the removal of VAT. Surprisingly, only two-thirds of those surveyed were aware of the SEAI home solar panel grant, which currently offer homeowners up to €2,100 towards an installation.
James Dorrian, managing director of energyefficiency.ie, said some of the results were surprising — such as 17% of people thinking our climate is unsuitable.
"This misconception presumably stems from the number of rainy and dull days we get here in Ireland," Mr Dorrian remarked.
"But while direct sunshine does generate more electricity, Ireland is actually considered to be located in a ‘goldilocks’ zone for solar energy. This is because excessive heat, or cold, can affect the efficiency of solar panels over time, and our moderate climate is therefore perfect for PV (converting light into electricity)."
Again, the survey proved that the best incentive for getting people to do things is showing them how to save money — the primary reason people gave for installing solar panels was to reduce electricity bills (70%), while only 16% said they did so for environmental reasons.
The average solar installation cost was €9,095, with the cheapest €4,000, and the highest €17,000.