Wind Power Fuels 41% of Ireland’s Electricity in October

Ireland’s wind farms generated over one third, specifically 36%, of the country’s electricity in October 2023. Alongside solar energy and other renewable sources, the total contribution from renewables reached 41%. This figure marks the third highest percentage recorded for the month of October, according to the industry group Wind Energy Ireland (WEI).

The average wholesale price of electricity during October was €100.70 per megawatt-hour (MWh), a notable decrease from €123.45 in the same month last year. WEI reported that on days with substantial wind power generation, the average cost dropped significantly to €55.84. In contrast, prices surged to €137.98 on days when the electricity grid relied primarily on fossil fuels.

“It is encouraging to see that wind energy continues to play a crucial role in managing electricity prices,” stated Noel Cunniffe, chief executive of WEI. He added, “On the windiest days last month, wholesale electricity prices were less than half of what they were on days when we had to rely on imported fossil fuels.”

Wind energy production for October totaled approximately 1,229 gigawatt-hours (GWh). The leading county for wind power generation was Kerry with 156 GWh, followed closely by Cork at 144 GWh, Galway with 84 GWh, and Derry at 83 GWh.

Mr. Cunniffe emphasized the economic benefits of local wind energy production, stating, “Rather than importing hundreds of millions of euros worth of gas, Irish wind farms ensure money stays where it belongs, at home, supporting Irish workers and businesses.”

Despite the positive contributions of wind energy, WEI has highlighted concerns regarding the planning and approval process for new wind projects. In the third quarter of 2023, An Coimisiún Pleanála approved only one new wind farm project, which has a capacity of 46 MW. This amount represents just 7% of the wind energy required during that period for Ireland to meet its climate action targets.

To meet the goal of 9,000 MW of onshore wind energy by 2030, WEI estimates that a total of 665 MW of projects should have been approved in the third quarter alone. Currently, there is a backlog of over 2,000 MW worth of onshore wind projects awaiting approval, which equates to around 40% of Ireland’s existing capacity.

Despite these challenges, there was notable progress, with ten new wind projects submitted for planning approval in the third quarter of 2023. This influx signals a potential shift towards increasing renewable energy capacity in Ireland, which is vital for meeting future energy demands and climate commitments.

As the country continues to explore and expand its renewable energy resources, the reliance on wind remains a key component in achieving a sustainable energy future. The developments in October reflect both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead in balancing energy needs with environmental goals.