Record High Rooftop Generation

Solar Surge: Irish Homeowners Cash In As Rooftop Generation Hits Record Highs

Bord Gáis Energy reveals how homeowners are turning sunny days into savings, with an additional €1,000 now available for homeowners.

Irish homeowners are discovering that their rooftops have become unexpected income generators, as new data shows solar power achieving record-breaking performance across the country's electricity grid. Bord Gáis Energy estimates that during a bright week, 370,000 Irish homes could collectively earn over €3.7million by exporting solar power back to the grid. 

According to EirGrid, Ireland's national electricity grid operator, solar power delivered 6.5% of all electricity generated in May of this year, the highest contribution ever recorded, producing 173,163 MWh of clean energy. This marks a major leap from just 2.7% of Ireland’s electricity mix a year ago, and it reflects the growing impact of solar even under typically overcast Irish conditions. While 6.5% of electricity generation may sound modest, this record contribution was achieved with just a small proportion of Irish homes currently equipped with solar PV systems, demonstrating the powerful potential of rooftop generation. Solar power is now meeting the electricity needs of over 370,000* homes and preventing more than 395,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year. As more homeowners join the movement, this figure is expected to grow substantially

Bord Gáis Energy is urging homeowners to capitalise on what many consider an untapped financial opportunity right above their heads and are offering every household in the country a free consultation. While bright days certainly help boost performance, modern solar systems are designed to operate efficiently even on cloudy or rainy days, something many homeowners aren’t aware of.

Most homeowners understand that solar panels reduce electricity costs, fewer realise these systems can generate actual income by selling excess power back to the national grid, particularly during peak sunshine hours.

Here’s how it works: if your home with solar panels sends 8 kWh back to the grid each day at the current Bord Gáis Energy export rate of €0.185 per kWh, that’s around €1.48 per day. Over a sunny week, you could earn more than €10.35. 

Despite these financial incentives, significant knowledge gaps persist among Irish households. Recent research commissioned by Bord Gáis Energy revealed that one in five adults remain unaware they can earn money from solar panels, while 60% would consider installation if costs were more accessible. 

Valerie Hand, Bord Gáis Energy Retrofit Manager, commented: "Solar isn't just about doing your bit for the environment, it's about putting money back in your pocket too. With solar power booming across Ireland, homeowners have a real chance to turn their roofs into money-makers. We want to help people to better understand the benefits and affordability on their own personal journeys to Net Zero along with the rest of the country.  It's easier and cheaper than most people think, and once you're set up, you're earning with every bright day. We are available to visit every home in Ireland to help the people of Ireland in their sustainability journey.” 

To encourage homeowners to make the switch to solar, Bord Gáis Energy provides complimentary solar consultations, helping homeowners assess their property's potential. Current incentives include SEAI grants up to €1,800.

To make solar even more affordable, Bord Gáis Energy customers can also avail of SEAI grants of up to €1,800, as well as an exclusive €1,000 saving on solar with Bord Gáis Energy. This offer includes two free solar panels (standard price €300 each) and free BER certification (standard price €400), delivering a total saving of €1,000. The offer is valid on purchases made by 30 January 2026, with installation to be completed by 31 March 2026.

Modern solar installations are designed for longevity, with systems built to operate effectively for over 30 years, ensuring substantial long-term financial and environmental returns.

  • Solar contributed 6.5% of Ireland's electricity generation in May
  • Year-on-year solar generation more than doubled
  • Potential weekly export earnings: €11+ per household during optimal conditions
  • Available incentives: Up to €2,200 in combined grants and discounts

Bord Gáis Energy’s solar experts will guide homeowners through each step, from consultation and custom system design, to grant applications and installation. 

Bord Gáis Energy is encouraging homeowners to book a free solar consultation today, with an added incentive of two complimentary premium panels and a free BER certificate, together worth up to €1,000. The company will also support customers with their SEAI grant application, which could provide up to €1,800 in government funding towards installation (subject to eligibility and approval).

Homeowners can find out how much they could save and earn by booking a free solar consultation at bordgaisenergy.ie/solar.