Co. Waterford is one of the most historic counties in Ireland, known for its Gaelic and Viking history.
Waterford is perhaps best known around the world for Waterford crystal – which has become a global symbol of craftsmanship.
Waterford City, established by the Vikings in 914 AD, has a blend of medieval architecture and modern charm. The city boasts a beautiful waterfront, historic sites, and lively arts scene.
And Waterford’s location on the south coast means it’s ideal for solar energy.
There are a number of companies in Waterford installing solar panels – but like all big investments, it’s important to avoid cowboys (unfortunately, they exist in the Déise like anywhere else).
Luckily choosing an solar panel installer in Waterford is easy and straightforward, with our list of trustworthy and expert installers who use only the best materials, offering great value for money.
Waterford Solar Panels Adoption
Over the past decade, Waterford has seen a massive surge in homeowners adopting solar energy.
The latest statistics from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland show that since 2015, a total of 1,590 solar PV panel grants have been awarded in Waterford.
However, the most notable growth has occurred in the last year with 480 grant-supported installations being completed until the end of August 2024. This stat alone highlights the growth of solar in the county is on the rise.
The growth in the past 9 years indicates that solar energy has firmly taken root in Waterford, with even more homeowners expected to embrace the substantial long-term financial benefits of going solar in the near future.
Waterford Climate
Waterford’s location in the south of Ireland has a substantial effect on the county’s climate.
Waterford Sunshine Hours
When we talk about whether solar panels are worth it in Ireland, we often have to explain that solar panels don’t need direct sunshine to generate electricity.
This is correct, of course, and solar panels will save you hundreds of euro per year whether you live in the sunnier southern coast, or on an island off the Donegal coast.
Essentially, for solar panels to generate electricity, only sunlight is needed, and not unobstructed sunshine.
Having said that, PV panels can produce more electricity with direct sunshine – and luckily, Waterford gets more than its fair share.
Waterford Towns and Villages
Waterford is located at the base of Ireland, bordering the counties of Cork, Wexford, Kilkenny and Tipperary.
Waterford is based on the Gaelic territory of the Déise, which is where the county’s small Gaeltacht gets its name.
Waterford had a population of 127,363 in the most recent Census with the largest town being Waterford City, with a population of 60,079.
Other large urban centres in the county include Dungarvan and Tramore, both boasting over 10,000 inhabitants. The rest of the county’s people live in small villages or in the countryside.
Waterford’s is known for having many megalithic tombs and Ogham stones, and the county, specifically Waterford City, is known for its Viking past
Other attractions in Waterford include numerous castles and historical sites.
| Waterford Towns and Villages | – Population |
|---|---|
| Waterford | 60,079 |
| Tramore | 11,277 |
| Dungarvan | 10,081 |
| Portlaw | 1,881 |
| Dunmore East | 1,731 |
| Ballinroad | 1,389 |
| Lismore | 1,347 |
| Tallow | 1,022 |
Waterford Housing
There are 31,580 properties in Co. Waterford with a BER energy rating. Of those, 13,720 are in Waterford City.
Waterford county’s properties are more energy efficient than in the city. In Waterford county, 13% of buildings are rated A, while in the city this is just 9%.
8% of buildings in both the city and county are rated F or G.
In general, buildings in Waterford are more energy efficient than many other counties in Ireland. In the county, 28% have an A or B rating. In Waterford City however this figure is 22%.
| Area | Energy Rating | Total Housing Stock | Average Age | ||||||
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | |||
| Waterford City | 1,783 | 1,784 | 5,340 | 3155 | 1,097 | 412 | 686 | 13,720 | 38 |
| Waterford County | 2,321 | 2,679 | 5,893 | 3,572 | 1,607 | 714 | 715 | 17,860 | 36 |
BER data to Q2 2024. Source: CSO.ie
