Over the past year, from May 2024 to April 2025, Ireland's electricity consumption showcased a diverse mix of sources. Fossil fuels continue to play a significant role, with gas accounting for almost 40% of electricity consumption and contributing most of the 44% share from fossil sources, while coal and oil represent a much smaller fraction. In parallel, low-carbon energy sources are making essential contributions. Wind power, providing more than 30% of electricity, leads the charge among low-carbon sources, augmented by biofuels, solar, and hydropower, each contributing smaller shares. Net imports provide about 14% of the electricity, serving as a critical piece in balancing energy demands. This transition offers hope towards cleaner electricity production, although fossil fuels still slightly outpace low-carbon sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Ireland?
When considering Ireland's electricity growth, both in total use and clean energy generation, the upward trend is clear. In 2025, electricity consumption reached a record high of 6941 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record from 2008 by 178 kWh. This increase indicates a renewed vibrancy in energy use, possibly driven by factors like economic recovery and growing demand for electric solutions. Meanwhile, low-carbon electricity generation has also hit a new record at 2879 kWh per person, a 166 kWh rise since its previous peak in 2023. These gains in sustainable electricity generation are promising, although they urge continuous efforts to maintain momentum and further diminish reliance on fossil-generated electricity.
Suggestions
To enhance Ireland's clean electricity landscape, continued expansion of wind capacity is vital. This strategy should be complemented by exploring solar and nuclear energy, sectors where other regions have achieved remarkable success. For instance, Denmark's wind energy, delivering 57% of its electricity, demonstrates the potential for wind power in similar spacious and windy environments. On the solar front, regions like Lebanon, where solar accounts for 31% of electricity, serve as inspirational models for expanding solar capacity. Furthermore, the robust nuclear programs in countries like France, contributing 69% of its electricity, underline the immense potential that nuclear energy holds as a stable, low-carbon power source. Drawing lessons from these regions can play a pivotal role in propelling Ireland towards a more sustainable and independent energy future.
History
In tracing the history of low-carbon electricity in Ireland, wind energy has been a prominent player since the early 2000s. Between 2005 and 2009, there was a steady increase of 0.5 TWh annually. The early 2010s saw more variability, with significant growth observed in 2011 and 2015, punctuated by brief declines in some years. The late 2010s ushered in a new era of expansion, with 2020 marking a standout year with 2.2 TWh of growth. Likewise, 2023 was notable for introducing a 0.5 TWh increase in solar energy, underscoring a diversified approach to sustainable electricity. Meanwhile, biofuels have seen less dramatic growth but still contribute positively to the overall low-carbon strategy. Throughout this journey, Ireland continues to progress towards a cleaner electricity future with a consistent focus on expansion and diversification of its low-carbon sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.