August 08, 2025

Making the decision to install solar is a big step.

You’ve done your research, chosen an installer, and said “yes”. Now you’re probably wondering: what exactly happens between that moment and having solar panels generating energy on your roof?

In this article, we’ll walk you through what a typical solar installation journey looks like in Ireland, from booking your install to solar system handover and the grant application.

1. Booking Confirmed: What Happens Next?

Once you give the go-ahead for your installation, the wheels start turning.

Your installer will usually request a deposit (a percentage of the total cost of your solar installation) to be paid.

Be weary of installers who request full payment of your system upfront. This raises some major red flags.

Here’s what usually happens at this stage:

• You receive a booking confirmation

• A project coordinator is assigned to your installation, they will be your main point of contact

You won’t see panels going up just yet, but this phase is important. It’s the admin stage where all the groundwork is laid to ensure you receive a seamless and stress-free solar installation.

This is the point where your project moves from planning to execution.

2. Site Survey

A dedicated technician will visit your home for a survey. This survey will confirm the system design, verify measurements, and adjust for shade and obstructions on your roof.

After the site survey, a solar design expert will make adjustments to your customised system design to ensure everything looks and operates correctly.

To ensure a safe installation and that the team arrives prepared, the site survey is one of the most important steps on your solar journey.

3. Design

Your design plans will be finalised. A reputable installer should provide you with a digital 3D model of your system.

Once approved, your installer will complete and submit the NC6 form to ESB networks on your behalf. This form notifies ESB Networks of your microgeneration setup.

4. SEAI Grant Application

If your home was built and occupied before 31 December 2021, you may be eligible for the SEAI Home Solar PV grant, which can offer up to €1,800 toward the cost of your system.

Due to GDPR, you will need to start the grant application process.

Then, most reputable solar installers will look after the remaining grant paperwork for you, but you will need to provide:

• Your MPRN number (found on your electricity bill)

• Your Eircode

• Confirmation that the property is your main residence

• BER details (Building Energy Rating)

Once approved, your installer can proceed with confirming your installation date.

Before your installation can be scheduled, you need to register for the initial part of your SEAI grant. If you haven’t already applied, your installers should send you a reminder. You need to receive your letter of offer prior to any works taking place on your property.

Read this article to learn more about the SEAI Home Solar Grant and how to claim it.

5. Installation Scheduling & Pre-Checks

Once your grant has been approved, your installation is officially locked in.

Here’s what happens next:

• You will be given a confirmed installation date

• Your installer notifies ESB Networks using an NC6 form, so your electricity can legally be exported to the grid

• Scaffolding or cherry pickers may be scheduled if needed, depending on your roof access

• Any unusual requirements are flagged and prepared in advance

This period is mostly handled behind the scenes by your installer, but you will be kept informed if anything changes.

6. Installation Day: What to Expect

The day is here!

Most residential installations in Ireland take between one day and a week, depending on your installers experience and team. First the mounting system will be fitted, and the panels and inverter are installed before electrical engineers arrive to your home to wire and commission the system.

At this stage, you will have chosen the location for your inverter, and battery storage if included.

Installers work with safety and minimal disruption in mind. You don’t need to leave your home, just ensure access to key areas is available.

Experienced solar installers will complete home solar installations in one day.

Read this article to learn more about how solar panels are installed.

7. System Commissioning & Grid Connection

Once the installation has been completed, your system is commissioned and made ready for everyday use.

Before leaving, your installation team will:

• Test the system to ensure it’s generating correctly

• Connect the inverter to your Wi-Fi

• Set up your monitoring app

• Walk you through how your system works

• Provide a system handover and warranty details

• Submit final paperwork to ESB Networks for grid connection approval

From this point, your system is active, and you’re officially generating your own electricity.

8. Invoice Issued

Your installer should send you a copy of your invoice on the morning of your installation. Your sales representative or point of contact will be on hand to answer any questions or queries you may have.

Payment should be made on completion of your solar installation service.

9. BER Assessment & SEAI Grant Payment

To complete your SEAI grant claim, a post-installation BER (Building Energy Rating) is required.

Here’s how it works:

• Your installer arranges for a certified, independent BER assessor to visit

• They inspect your home and confirm the impact of the solar system

• The new BER is submitted to SEAI

Once this is done, SEAI processes your grant and issues payment. In most cases, the grant is paid directly to the installer, and your final invoice reflects the deduction.

You will receive a copy of your BER cert once it has been published. This can take up to 6 weeks.

10. Aftercare, Warranties & Monitoring

Once your system is live, your solar journey continues.

Here’s what happens after installation:

• You can track solar generation, household consumption, and battery usage live from your app

• Most installers can troubleshoot remotely if issues arise

• Warranties typically include:

• 30 years for panels (performance)

• 5–10 years for inverters

• 2–5 years for workmanship

Solar PV systems are low maintenance, but it’s smart to keep an eye on the app and schedule occasional check-ups every few years.

If faults occur, your installer should be your first point of contact.

*Warranties will not be activated until full payment has been made.

Conclusion: A Predictable, Well-Supported Process

Once you book your solar installation, the rest of the process is clear, coordinated, and designed to get your system up and running as smoothly as possible.

While every home is different, most Irish installations follow the same basic steps:

• Grant approval

• Scheduling

• 1 day of installation

• Connecting to electricity

• BER and grant drawdown

By understanding what happens at each stage, you’ll feel more confident and better prepared for your journey toward clean, self-generated energy.

Now that you know what happens after booking your solar installation, hopefully it all feels a little less mysterious.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re thinking about going solar, we can help make the process stress-free. Complete the form below to get a free home solar quote and consultation.