Business Solar Cost Calculator Ireland 2026

How this business solar calculator works

This calculator builds a cost estimate using real products from the De Energy Hub database — commercial solar panels, inverters and batteries available through Irish commercial installers in 2026. It then applies the three key business financial mechanisms in sequence: VAT reclaim, the SEAI Non-Domestic Microgen grant, and Accelerated Capital Allowance — giving you a true net effective cost.

VAT reclaim on commercial solar in Ireland

VAT-registered businesses reclaim VAT on solar equipment (23% hardware) and installation (13.5% — the reduced rate for construction services). This is processed through your normal VAT return cycle, typically reducing your gross cost by 18–20%. No advance application is needed — it applies automatically to your invoice.

Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) for solar

Solar PV systems are on the SEAI ACA list, allowing the full capital cost to be written off against taxable profits in year one rather than over 8 years. For a company at 12.5% corporation tax this creates a year-1 saving equal to 12.5% of the net cost. Sole traders and partnerships at 40% marginal rate see a proportionally larger saving. ACA applies to the net cost after VAT reclaim and SEAI grant — you cannot claim a tax deduction on the same expenditure covered by a grant.

SEAI Non-Domestic Microgen Support Scheme

The SEAI Non-Domestic Microgen Support Scheme (NDMSS) supports businesses and public sector bodies installing solar PV up to 50 kWp. Unlike the residential grant (fixed €900/kWp), this scheme is competitive — applications are assessed in rounds and grants vary based on funding availability. This calculator uses €900/kWp as an indicative estimate. Systems over 50 kWp typically use the Better Energy Communities programme. Grant approval must come before installation begins.

Why businesses get better solar payback than homeowners

Business electricity consumption typically peaks 8am–6pm, overlapping almost exactly with Irish solar generation hours. This gives commercial solar a self-consumption rate of ~85% versus ~70% for homes. Higher self-consumption means more generated electricity replaces expensive grid electricity rather than being exported at the lower Clean Export Premium rate (€0.185/kWh) — significantly improving payback.

Install costs are indicative. Actual installer quotes vary by roof type, access, location and specification. SEAI grant amounts are indicative — the Non-Domestic Microgen Scheme is competitive. VAT reclaim eligibility depends on VAT registration and business use. ACA eligibility must be confirmed with your accountant. Data verified March–April 2026.