Ireland’s renewable energy potential is one of the finest in the world and the government is fully committed to exploiting this abundant resource.  The main sources of renewable energy in Ireland come from wind, solar, wave, hydropower, tidal, geothermal and biomass - all of which offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel use. Tapping these renewable energy resources will enable Ireland reduce our dependence on expensive fossil fuel imports, ensure a reliable energy supply for the long term, reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and enhance our economic competitiveness.

Ireland’s target to have 40% of electricity generation from renewable energy by 2020 positions us at the forefront of Europe and when implemented will set an ambitious target for others to follow.  EirGrid’s Grid 25 document, published in 2008, provides a detailed strategy for developing the grid to facilitate this 40% target and the company is fully committed to ensuring all targets are achieved on schedule.  EirGrid is currently on target to meet the challenging 40% target for 2020.  As of August 2009 approximately 12% of Ireland's electiricty is produced from renewable sources (wind 10%, hydro 2%). 

Please refer to the Connected and Contracted Wind Farms section for additional information on Wind Power.