Greens: "Balcony Solar - Let Apartment Dwellers Join Ireland’s Solar Revolution"

The Green Party has called for a new balcony solar grant to give apartment residents the same chance to cut their bills as homeowners.

Across Germany, more than 2 million people have already put solar panels on their balconies. These low-cost systems are so simple you just plug them into a socket - no electrician, no hassle. They power everyday items like fridges, laptops and lights, cutting bills and climate pollution at the same time.

“Why should solar only be for people with a roof?” asked Ossian Smyth, Green Party energy spokesperson. “Apartment dwellers have been locked out of Ireland’s solar revolution. With balcony solar, we can change that.”

The Greens are proposing:

• A straightforward grant to help people buy balcony solar units.
• A rule change to ESB regulations so people can plug in these safe, proven systems - just like in Germany.
• A fair deal for renters and apartment-owners who want to cut costs and go green.

In Germany, balcony solar is already saving households hundreds of euro every year. The technology is tried, tested, and safe.

“This is common sense,” added Smyth. “For the price of a TV, you can stick a panel on your balcony and watch your bills fall. All it takes is one simple rule change and we can bring clean, affordable energy to thousands of Irish families who’ve been excluded for too long.”

The Green Party is demanding action now, so balcony solar can be rolled out nationwide from 2026.