How to get and compare solar panel quotes
Get at least three written quotes for the same system size, then compare the price per panel. For a 10-panel system, expect €8,300–€9,000 before the SEAI grant.
Before you ask for quotes
- Find your yearly electricity use in kWh on a recent bill
- Check what size system that points to with the price calculator
- Decide whether you want a battery now, later or not at all
- Only use installers registered with SEAI. The €1,800 grant is not paid for work by anyone else.
What every quote should state
- Number of panels, the panel brand and model, and total kWp
- Inverter brand and model, and whether it is battery-ready
- Battery brand and usable kWh, if one is included
- Estimated yearly generation in kWh for your roof
- Total price, and the price after the SEAI grant
- Whether scaffolding, the BER assessment and certification are included
- Product and workmanship warranty periods
- Who applies for the grant and notifies ESB Networks
How to compare them
- Divide each total by the number of panels. Quotes for different sizes are only comparable per panel or per kWp.
- Check each against the price table. A quote well above the range needs a reason, such as a difficult roof.
- Compare the generation estimates. A much higher figure for the same roof is a warning sign.
- Treat a price that is only valid if you sign today as a reason to wait.