Frequently Asked Questions

We are nationwide solar installers, covering Clare, Limerick, Cork, Galway, and beyond.

All work is done by our in-house team of certified electricians and roofers. No subcontractors.

From initial consultation to install and final fittings, Solar PV installations take around 4-6 weeks. On average, it takes 1 to 3 days to fit solar panels for a residential property, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Our roofers prepare the roof without compromising the roof’s water-tightness then our electricians will then get you connected so you can start saving on your energy bills.

Certainly! We take the utmost care in our installations, and yes, we are fully insured to handle Solar PV projects. Our comprehensive insurance coverage provides peace of mind to our clients, ensuring that they are protected throughout the installation process. We prioritise safety and professionalism, and our insurance reflects our commitment to delivering reliable and secure Solar PV services.

Absolutely! We prioritise customer satisfaction. Our payment structure reflects our commitment, with 50% due before the service begins and the remaining balance payable upon completion and your satisfaction.

Generally speaking, solar panels will last for 25-30 years. The exact lifespan can be affected by environmental conditions, and how often they are maintained.

Solar panels require very little maintenance. To maintain optimal performance, we recommend maintenance every two years.

This is an extremely rare occurrence, with solar panels able to withstand strong environmental conditions with durability built to last for decades. If panels are damaged, we suggest you contact a member of the Fitzgerald Electric team who will be able to investigate the issue.

Yes! With rising energy prices and generous SEAI grants, most systems pay for themselves in 5–7 years.

Absolutely. Our team helps guide you through the application for SEAI, TAMS 3, and other funding.

If your home is eligible for a SEAI solar PV grant, you typically pay for the installation upfront and then claim the grant afterward. The process works like this:

1. Eligibility Check: We assess your home and confirm your eligibility for SEAI solar PV grants.
2. System Design & Installation: Your bespoke solar system is designed and installed by our SEAI-approved installers, with all required documentation completed as part of the process.
3. Post-Installation Documentation: After installation, a Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment is carried out if required, and all paperwork is submitted to SEAI.
4. Grant Payment: Once SEAI approves your claim, the grant amount is paid directly to you in around 4-6 weeks, effectively reducing the net cost of your solar system.

There is a strong ROI, with typical payback periods between 3-7 years. After this period, electricity would be considered for all intents and purposes, free.

Your energy savings begin on the day you install and activate the solar panels.

Modern Solar PV systems come with monitoring systems that allow homeowners to track the performance of their solar panels. All systems offer smart features, enabling remote monitoring and control through mobile apps or online platforms.

The number of solar panels depends on factors like energy consumption and available roof space. On average, a residential property may require 10 to 20 panels to meet typical energy needs.

Ideally, you should engage a solar panel company during the planning or design stage. This allows us to integrate the system seamlessly into your roof, electrical layout, and energy strategy, ensuring maximum efficiency and cost savings.

Solar panels are highly adaptable and can be installed on both older and newer homes. Some older properties may require minor electrical upgrades, but our team ensures the system works efficiently with your existing setup, whether it’s conventional heating or modern appliances.

Solar panels work effectively with all types of heating systems. Heat pumps can benefit even more, as the electricity generated can power the pump, further reducing energy costs and improving overall efficiency.

Yes, solar panels can be installed on apartments or multi-unit buildings, provided there is sufficient roof space and sunlight exposure. We assess feasibility and work with building management to ensure compliance with safety and planning requirements.

Yes. Solar PV systems improve your Building Energy Rating (BER) and make your home more attractive to eco-conscious buyers, typically increasing property value.

Most insurance providers include solar panels as part of your building cover, but it’s always recommended to notify your insurer to ensure full protection.

Solar panels can be removed and reinstalled by our trained technicians, but costs and feasibility depend on the new property’s roof and electrical setup. We provide guidance to make the process smooth and safe.

Yes and No. Solar PV does not heat the immersion tank directly as it is strictly electricity being generated. However, with the MyEnergi ‘Eddi’ as an optional extra, the surplus electricity that is generated can be diverted to your immersion tank to heat your water for free when a surplus is available.

A surplus is present when your Solar PV system is generating more electricity than your premises is using.

No, due to electrical regulations any domestic Solar PV system must be automatically isolated when a loss of grid voltage occurs. However, our services offer a backup socket supplied from the battery that will remain live in the event of a power outage.

Battery storage is optional within Solar PV systems but very beneficial. When your system has a surplus (as discussed above) the battery will charge off the surplus before it is exported out to the grid. This battery storage is available to use later when generation from the solar panels will not cover the usage in the premises. Another significant benefit to the battery is timed charging. If the customer avails of a night rate on their grid provider plan, the battery can be set to charge from the grid at this cheaper rate. This battery storage can then be used when the night rate ends. For this scenario, the customer is essentially purchasing electricity at a cheaper rate and then using it throughout times of a peak rate.

The sizing of a system depends on what a customer’s annual electricity usage is along with what roof space is available. Our software applications allow us to size the system according to each customer’s specific needs.

No. Solar PV can be installed on east and west roof aspects as well as south facing. With an east/west system, generation is highest in morning and evening times.

Yes. Farmers and agricultural businesses can take advantage of government-backed incentives to make solar PV more affordable. The Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3) provides grant funding of up to 60% (maximum €90,000) for eligible solar PV systems, while other schemes may offer additional tax relief or accelerated capital allowances. These incentives help reduce upfront costs, improve return on investment, and encourage sustainable farming practices.

Solar PV allows farms to generate their own renewable electricity, reduce energy costs, and lower carbon emissions – supporting sustainable, environmentally-friendly agricultural operations.

Consider available roof or land space, sunlight exposure, energy consumption patterns, budget, and eligibility for grants. Our team will carry out a full site assessment to design a system that fits your needs.

Yes. Solar PV systems are flexible and can be integrated into existing barns, milking parlours, grain dryers, and irrigation systems without disrupting day-to-day operations.

Solar PV systems generally require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional checks ensure optimal performance. Our team offers ongoing support to keep your system running smoothly.

Our commercial clients include offices, retail stores, hotels, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, schools, and more. Any energy-intensive business can benefit from solar PV systems.

Absolutely. Solar PV reduces carbon emissions, supports sustainability targets, and demonstrates corporate responsibility, helping businesses meet environmental standards and consumer expectations.

Yes. The Non-Domestic Microgen Grant (NDMG) and other SEAI incentives provide financial support to businesses for solar panel installations, reducing upfront costs and improving ROI. Get a grant of up to €160,000 for commercial businesses.

Yes. Commercial buildings and farms with solar PV systems typically see an increase in asset value, improved energy ratings, and enhanced sustainability credentials – all attractive to buyers and investors.