In 2025, Ireland's electricity consumption figures reveal a balanced mix between low-carbon and fossil-based sources, each making up approximately 41% of the electricity supply. Within the low-carbon category, wind energy emerges as a significant contributor, accounting for nearly a third of the electricity generation. Solar, hydropower, and biofuels, although participating in the clean electricity mix, collectively contribute close to none when compared to the more substantial share from wind energy. On the fossil side, gas is the predominant source, contributing almost 39% of electricity, while coal plays an exceedingly minor role, accounting for just around 1%. Additionally, net imports play a significant role in the energy mix, accounting for 17% of the electricity consumed.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Ireland?
Considering recent trends, Ireland's electricity consumption appears to be experiencing a slight decline. In 2025, electricity consumption per person was recorded at 6,750 kWh, marking a decrease of 104 kWh compared to the historic 2006 record of 6,854 kWh per person. Though overall consumption has decreased, it is important to note that low-carbon electricity generation has seen an encouraging increase. In 2025, low-carbon generation per person reached 2,801 kWh, a positive rise of 50 kWh since the previous record set in 2020. However, while there is progress in the breakdown of clean energy, the overall decline in electricity consumption poses challenges to meeting potential future demands, especially those driven by technology and sustainability goals.
Suggestions
To bolster Ireland's low-carbon electricity generation, there is a significant opportunity to further expand its wind capabilities, already a strong performer in the country's energy mix. Moreover, Ireland could look to successful regions and countries with high penetrations of specific low-carbon technologies for insights. Denmark and Iowa serve as excellent examples, with both deriving around 60% of their electricity from wind, showcasing the potential of this resource. Additionally, the integration of nuclear energy could diversify and stabilize Ireland’s low-carbon portfolio. Countries like France and Slovakia, with over 65% of their electricity coming from nuclear power, underline the substantial role this energy type can play. Similarly, expanding solar energy could align with successes seen in regions like California, where solar accounts for more than 30% of electricity generation, offering a sustainable and green pathway alongside wind and nuclear.
History
Ireland's journey toward clean electricity has witnessed notable shifts, especially in wind energy. Since the mid-2000s, wind energy has consistently grown, except for slight fluctuations in 2016 and 2021, reflecting temporarily reduced outputs. A significant leap was observed in 2020, characterized by a surge of over 2 TWh, demonstrating robust growth. Despite some setbacks in biofuels, reflected in a small decrease in 2023, the low-carbon electricity landscape continues to evolve with ongoing improvements in wind energy performance. Looking ahead, Ireland's history of embracing wind energy offers optimism for further diversifying its low-carbon capabilities and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way toward a greener and more sustainable energy future.
