For safety reasons, all microgeneration systems must be registered with ESB Networks, with Domestic Solar PV systems up to 6 kWp using the NC6 notification process. This is first and foremost to ensure that ESBN’s Network Technicians are aware of generation when carrying out repairs on the local electricity network. To maintain balance and prevent strain on the low voltage distribution grid, ESBN has set limits based on the size of the inverter through which the PV panels transport their generation. Under the NC6 process, these limits require that the peak export from inverters should not exceed 25A (approx. 6kVA) for single-phase connections or 16A/phase (approx. 11kVA) for three-phase connections.
While inverter limits are in place to protect the grid, households can still install larger systems through the NC7 mini-generation process or adopt solutions to maximise self-consumption of solar PV generated electricity.
It should also be noted that there are no regulated caps to the sale of renewably generated electricity exported to the gird, under the Clean Export Guarantee scheme, with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) deciding that suppliers will set their individual CEG tariffs on a competitive market basis.
Furthermore, Budget 2024 increased the exemption available for tax years 2024 and 2025 from €200 to €400 per year; for certain profits arising to a qualifying individual who generates energy from renewable, sustainable, or alternative energy sources for their own consumption.