Guide for Slimming Down Post Muscle Growth: Diet and Exercise Strategy
Solar Panels in Ireland: Payback Periods Shorter Than Previously Thought
In a surprising turn of events, new data suggests that the payback period for solar panels in Ireland might be shorter than previously thought. After considering government grants, the average payback period for residential installations is typically between 5 and 7 years. However, for larger systems, such as those with around 16 panels, the payback period can be as short as about 4 years and 9 months due to higher electricity production and export earnings.
Key factors influencing this payback period include the size of the solar panel system, self-consumption ratios, and electricity rates. For instance, a 16-panel system with 60% self-consumption, 40% export, an electricity rate of 34c/kWh, and a feed-in tariff of 19.5c/kWh can repay the investment in under 5 years. Smaller systems, such as 8 to 10 panels, tend to take closer to 6–7 years.
This range is shorter than payback periods quoted for the UK, which mostly span 7–10 years, reflecting factors such as Irish government grants, local energy prices, and export tariffs. A typical Irish household saving example showed around €329 annual savings and an estimated 11 years payback without considering additional incentives or storage benefits. Including government grant schemes likely reduces this to 5–7 years as in the latest 2025 data source.
The Irish government is offering grants of up to €1,800 towards the cost of solar panels for homeowners living in specific eircodes (Irish postal codes). This initiative, aimed at promoting renewable energy, could potentially make solar panel installations even more financially attractive for homeowners.
| Country | Average Payback Period (Years) | Notes | |-------------|-------------------------------|-------------------------------------------| | Ireland | 5 to 7 (residential) | Shorter with larger systems and grants[1]| | UK | 7 to 10 | Varies by region, system size[2][3] | | Ireland Est.| ~11 without grants | Example from Dublin, not including grants[4] |
In other health-related news, a study published in the BMJ indicates that the consumption of ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of cancer. The Irish government is not directly associated with this study. Meanwhile, Bodybuilding.com offers advice on what is the best workout to get cut, and T-Nation provides a complete guide to bulking and cutting.
However, it's important to remember that low-calorie diets can have dangerous health implications, as warned by The Poliquin Group. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a higher protein diet during an energy deficit combined with intense exercise promotes greater lean mass gain and fat mass loss. Another study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that branched-chain amino acid supplementation and resistance training maintains lean body mass during a caloric restricted diet.
In conclusion, the payback period for solar panels in Ireland is looking increasingly attractive, with new data suggesting it could be shorter than previously thought. Homeowners considering solar panel installations should take advantage of the government grants available to them, as they could potentially reduce the payback period even further.
[1] Source: Activ8 (2025) [2] Source: Solar Power Portal (2020) [3] Source: Solar Trade Association (2019) [4] Source: Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (2018)
- In light of the recent data, it appears that incorporating a fitness-and-exercise routine along with a health-and-wellness approach to diet could potentially complement the financial benefits of investing in solar panels for Irish homeowners.
- After adopting a solar panel system for their homes, Irish residents may also want to look into the science behind various nutritional supplements, such as branched-chain amino acids, to further optimize their health-and-wellness journey, especially during periods of caloric deficit and intense exercise.
