Renewables Power Over Half of Electricity in February

Electricity from renewable sources provided for over half of total demand in February, according to provisional data from grid operator EirGrid.

Wind power alone supplied almost half of the country’s electricity needs, accounting for just over 48% of all electricity used in Ireland. Total generation from wind energy amounted to 1,411 GWh (Gigawatt hours) over the month, which saw a new peak wind power record set on Thursday, 13 February.

Overall, renewables provided 54.5% of electricity in February when other sources, including grid-scale solar and hydropower, were included.

Overall, electricity system demand stood at 2,918 GWh in February.

Gas generation accounted for 31% of all electricity used in February, with 12% being imported via interconnection, 2% coming from coal, and the remaining 1% from other sources.

EirGrid is responsible for leading Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future so that 80% of electricity can come from renewables, as set out in Government targets.

Currently the electricity grid can accommodate up to 75% of electricity from renewable sources at any one time. This is known as the system non-synchronous penetration (SNSP) limit. EirGrid is aiming to further increase the SNSP limit.

Charlie McGee, System Operational Manager at EirGrid, said: “February was one of our strongest months on record for renewables on the grid, as demonstrated by the new peak wind record of 3,884 Megawatts on the evening of 13 February. As ever, this was supported by a mix of generation sources which help to ensure a stable flow of power at all times on the grid.”