In 2025, Ireland's electricity consumption shows a balanced distribution between low-carbon sources and fossil energy. Low-carbon energies contribute a bit more than 41.5% of the total electricity consumption with wind being the dominant player, generating almost a third of the electricity. Solar, hydropower, and biofuels collectively contribute close to 9% to the clean energy mix. Meanwhile, fossil energy also accounts for around 41.5% of electricity, with gas being the major source at nearly 39%. Notably, coal contributes close to none, at just over 1%. Net imports, which are not considered in the low-carbon or fossil groups, account for nearly 17% of Ireland's electricity supply. This energy landscape reflects a strong foothold of clean energy, although fossil sources remain equally significant.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Ireland?
Electricity consumption in Ireland appears to have somewhat stagnated. In 2025, the consumption is 6738 kWh per person, slightly below the peak of 6854 kWh per person in 2006, indicating a decrease of 116 kWh. However, the generation of low-carbon electricity has reached new heights. The recent low-carbon generation rate stands at 2801 kWh per person, up by 50 kWh from its previous record in 2020. This development signifies a positive shift towards clean electricity, despite the overall slight dip in total consumption. Expansion of low-carbon generation is crucial as Ireland aims to enhance its energy sustainability and transition away from fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To further upsurge low-carbon electricity generation, Ireland should consider expanding its already substantial wind energy infrastructure. Learning from other successful regions can guide Ireland to diversify its low-carbon portfolio. Denmark has achieved remarkable success with wind electricity, generating 60% of its power from wind sources. Emulating this model could help Ireland substantially increase its clean energy capacity. Additionally, examining nuclear-heavy countries like France and Slovakia could offer insights into diversifying electricity sources. Both countries generate significant shares of their electricity from nuclear energy, at 67% and 66%, respectively. A balanced mix of solar and nuclear, like in California and states like Nevada with strong solar presence, can further enhance Ireland’s clean electricity output, boosting sustainability and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
History
Ireland's journey towards low-carbon electricity has been marked by significant progress, particularly in wind energy. In the early 2000s, the expansion began steadily with continuous increments. Notably, in 2011, there was a significant leap with wind energy growing by 1.6 TWh. The decade following 2010 saw regular growth in wind energy, sometimes punctuated by slight decreases as in 2016 and 2021. However, positive momentum quickly resumed, with substantial gains like the 2.1 TWh surge in 2020. Recently, changes in biofuels have balanced previous declines, yet the primary focus remains on increasing wind electricity. Ireland's history reveals a dynamic and upward trajectory in clean energy, albeit with challenges, underscoring the importance of continuous investment in energy diversification for a sustainable future.
