Micro-generation allows homeowners to produce their own electricity or heat. This can lower energy bills and reduce reliance on the grid. Here’s a simple guide to the main options available in Ireland.
1. Solar Panels for Heating Water
Solar thermal panels use sunlight to heat water. They don’t generate electricity but provide hot water for taps and heating systems.
- Best suited for homes with high hot water usage.
- Works best with a hot water cylinder.
- Can cover up to 60% of your hot water needs annually.
- Grants available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
Solar water heating is a great way to cut gas or oil use for heating water.
2. Solar PV: Generating Your Own Electricity
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity.
- They generate free electricity during daylight hours.
- Any excess can be stored in a battery or sent back to the grid.
- They work even on cloudy days, though output is lower.
- SEAI grants are available to help with installation costs.
Installing 4-6 panels can significantly reduce electricity bills.
3. Heat Pumps: Efficient Home Heating
Heat pumps provide efficient heating by extracting heat from the air, ground, or water.
- Uses electricity but is 3-4 times more efficient than standard heating.
- Ideal for well-insulated homes.
- Can replace oil, gas, or electric heating systems.
- Grants of up to €6,500 available from SEAI.
Heat pumps work best in homes with good insulation and a high Building Energy Rating (BER).
4. Improve Your BER Rating
A Building Energy Rating (BER) measures how energy-efficient your home is.
- Rated from A (best) to G (worst).
- Better ratings mean lower heating costs.
- Ways to improve:
- Insulation (attic, walls, floors).
- Solar panels or heat pumps.
- Energy-efficient windows and doors.
A good BER increases your home’s value and reduces energy bills.
5. Selling Energy Back to the Grid
If you generate more electricity than you use, you can sell it to the grid under the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS).
- Payments are tax-free up to €200 per year.
- You need a smart meter to measure exported energy.
- Most major suppliers offer feed-in tariffs.
This means you get paid for excess energy your solar panels generate.
Summary
Micro-generation is a great way to reduce energy costs and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Solar panels can heat water or generate electricity.
- Heat pumps provide efficient home heating.
- Improving your BER saves money in the long run.
- Selling excess energy back to the grid offers extra savings.
Government grants make these technologies more affordable. Now is a great time to invest in a greener, more energy-efficient home!