Study shows we can be world leader in renewable energy: Ireland
Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan today announced the publication of a ground-breaking report on renewable energy and the electricity grid on the island of Ireland.
Undertaken by national and international experts, the All-Island Grid Study was commissioned jointly by the Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Northern Ireland).
The study examines a range of generation portfolios for Ireland, the ability of our power system to handle various amounts of electricity from renewable sources, the investment levels required, and the climate change and security of supply benefits that would accrue.
Minister Ryan said: "This study shows that we can do more than reach our renewable energy targets – we can surpass them.
"Above and beyond our current target of 33% by 2020, the Grid Study tells us that it is feasible to generate 42% of our electricity from renewable sources by that date. This will be one of the highest levels of renewable electricity in the world. It will reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 25% in comparison to a ‘business as usual’ scenario.
"Getting to this point will not be easy. This is a highly complex task. Our electricity systems will require major investment to cater for wind, wave and other renewables. For the Republic alone, additional investment of over €650 million will be necessary to reinforce over 600 km of the electricity transmission network. Corresponding investment required from private industry will be in the order of €9bn."
