Ambitious renewable energy goals across the island of Ireland are set to be missed by at least two years, new forecasts have shown.
Governments in the north and south were handed targets of generating 80% of their electricity from renewable sources by the end of this decade, but that will be delayed until at least 2032, according to the data from consultancy firm Cornwall Insight.
The data shows that by 2030 only 70% of the power grid across the island will be using renewable sources, with the majority of the remaining electricity generated by gas plants.
The Republic had 42% of electricity generated from renewables in 2023 and the North had 45.8%.
This percentage encompasses onshore wind, offshore wind, solar and hydro energy, and is calculated based on the demand met by renewables.
However, the report notes that “significant progress has been made”, with forecasts predicting a substantial increase in the percentage of electricity from renewables. That is forecast to rise from just over 40% in 2023 to 82% in 2032.
Kitty Nolan, energy modeller at Cornwall Insight, said: “Without addressing the systemic challenges in Ireland’s renewables development process, including critical infrastructure and planning concerns, the country’s renewable energy goals will remain out of reach.
“While some may argue that the delay won’t have a significant impact, Ireland’s continued reliance on insecure imports exposes us to global market disruptions, which could drive up prices, while our dependence on fossil fuel-generated power is delaying our progress toward achieving net zero.”
She added: “It’s crucial that we streamline these planning processes and invest in grid infrastructure to meet our climate commitments. Achieving the 80% renewable target is possible, but it requires decisive and immediate action from all stakeholders involved.”
