Carol Nolan
Question:147. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he is aware of the implications of a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44738/26]
View answerThursday, 11 June 2026
Questions (147)
Written answers
Under the Climate Action Plan, greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector have reached an all-time low, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and fallen by about 44% between 2016 and 2024.
As we navigate complex challenges arising out of recent global events, it is clear that countries who have more renewables on their electricity system are more sheltered from the impact of volatility on the wholesale electricity market arising from fossil fuel prices. Adding more renewables to the electricity system will not only reduce emissions but will protect electricity consumers from fossil fuel volatility.
Ireland has made substantial progress in the development of renewable electricity capacity in recent years. We currently have over 8 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network. This means we have added approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity in just ten years, including doubling our wind capacity and establishing solar energy as a major pillar of our electricity supply.
Ireland is a world leader in the integration of wind and solar energy, with 5 GW of onshore wind helping to reduce the emissions intensity of our power system as well as reducing the role of gas in setting wholesale electricity prices.
Solar is now Ireland's third largest source of indigenous electricity generation and Ireland’s fastest growing source of renewable generation. Solar is not only reducing electricity bills for households and businesses but also easing pressure on the grid by lowering peak demand and supporting a more resilient energy system.
The inclusion of Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations in the Revision of the National Planning Framework is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets and will support a plan-led approach to the strategic planning of renewable technologies.