Ireland derived 80% of its energy consumption from fossil fuels in the year 2024
In the Republic of Ireland, efforts to decrease reliance on fossil fuels have faced challenges, despite a significant increase in renewable energy production. According to the Energy Institute's recent report, fossil fuels accounted for over 81.4% of Ireland's primary energy supply in 2024, marking an increase from the previous year.
Factors Contributing to Fossil Fuel Dependence
Several factors contribute to Ireland's continued reliance on fossil fuels. Economically, the country's infrastructure and industries are heavily dependent on natural gas, which accounted for 42% of electricity generation in 2024. Moreover, security of supply remains a significant concern, with electricity demand growing rapidly, necessitating reliable energy sources.
In terms of meeting renewable energy targets, Ireland has made progress but faces difficulties in achieving ambitious goals, such as the aim of reaching 80% renewable electricity by 2030.
Proposed Solutions
Addressing Ireland's reliance on fossil fuels requires a multi-faceted approach. One proposed solution is the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) policy, which aims to increase the use of renewable heat sources. The draft RHO bill sets phased obligations for renewable heat generation, starting at 1.5% in the first year and increasing to 3% in the second year.
Infrastructure development is another crucial aspect. Projects like the Celtic Interconnector, although delayed, are essential for enhancing electricity import capacity and meeting growing demand. This interconnector can help balance energy supply by potentially including more renewable energy imports.
Encouraging investment in renewable technologies, such as wind and solar, is also vital. Ireland has seen a 71% increase in solar power production in 2024. Continuing this trend can help reduce fossil fuel dependency.
Strengthening policies and regulatory frameworks to support the transition to renewable energy is essential. This includes addressing legal challenges and ensuring compliance with EU regulations to facilitate higher renewable energy adoption.
Implications and Calls for Action
James Delahunt, head of energy & natural resources at accountants KPMG in Ireland, argues that the findings highlight the need for policies prioritizing renewable energy. Under the Paris Agreement, Ireland faces potential fines of up to €26 billion if it fails to meet its emission reduction targets by 2030 and reach "net zero" by 2050.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland reported that total greenhouse gas emissions last year fell 2 per cent to 53.75 million tonnes. However, continued reliance on oil and gas for transport and manufacturing contributes to Ireland's dependence on fossil fuels. The Republic used 148,700 barrels of oil a day in 2024, an increase from the previous year's 147,500.
As Ireland navigates these challenges, it is clear that a concerted effort is required to transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
- Despite the growth in renewable energy production, industry in Ireland remains heavily dependent on natural gas, which accounted for 42% of the country's electricity generation in 2024, hindering efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- To address this reliance, several solutions have been proposed, including the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) policy, which aims to increase the use of renewable heat sources, and increasing investment in renewable technologies like wind and solar energy.
- The transition to renewable energy is crucial for Ireland to meet its emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement, as failing to do so could result in fines of up to €26 billion by 2030. Encouraging investment and strengthening policies to support the transition to renewable energy will play a significant role in achieving this goal.
