Would you recommend solar panels?
Sep 15, 2026 · 17m
Summary
Andrea Gilligan discusses the potential phase-out of payments for selling excess solar power back to the Irish grid, a move experts warn could deter new installations. Guests Pete the Builder, dairy farmer Thomas, and solar enthusiasts Rob and another Thomas share their experiences, emphasizing that battery storage and load-shifting are now more valuable than grid export credits. The conversation highlights how homeowners and farmers are optimizing their systems to reduce bills significantly, despite the uncertainty surrounding future export tariffs.
Topics discussed
Intro: Warning on solar panel export rates
Pete the Builder: Installation costs and seasonal usage
Pete: Impact of potential export payment phase-out
Thomas (Farmer): Solar usage on a dairy farm
Thomas: Critique of Ireland's renewable energy policy
Advice: Installers, EVs, and grid upgrades
Rob: Home solar, EV charging, and battery strategy
Thomas (Homeowner): Load shifting and battery safety
Tax implications of selling excess power
Listener reports from France and closing remarks
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