A new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights Ireland’s path to ensuring a secure and sustainable electricity supply as demand is projected to surge over the next decade. Titled Powering Ireland’s Energy Future: Approaches for a secure, renewables-led electricity system to 2035, the report outlines strategies for bolstering the country’s power system while addressing the challenges associated with increasing reliance on renewable energy sources.
With Ireland’s electricity demand expected to rise significantly, the IEA emphasizes the need for coordinated planning and investment in electricity infrastructure. Wind power has already established itself as a cornerstone of Ireland’s energy landscape, supplying approximately one-third of the country’s electricity in 2024. This achievement places Ireland well ahead of the global average and ranks second only to Denmark among countries with large power systems.
The report was launched during a meeting between Darragh O’Brien, Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, and Fatih Birol, IEA Executive Director, at the IEA headquarters in Paris. They discussed the implications of the report for Ireland’s energy strategy and the broader international context for energy security.
“Ireland has shown that an island-based power system can successfully integrate very high shares of variable electricity generation while maintaining a focus on energy security,” stated Fatih Birol. He pointed out that as electricity demand climbs, the report underscores the importance of timely investments and innovative approaches to power grid management.
Minister Darragh O’Brien expressed optimism about the collaboration with the IEA, noting that the report contains vital policy recommendations not only for Ireland but also for countries worldwide that are pursuing the green energy transition. “Energy security is a global challenge which requires global cooperation and dialogue,” he said, emphasizing Ireland’s commitment to supporting the IEA’s initiatives.
The report also addresses the rising electricity demand driven by electrification trends in heating and transport, alongside the growth of housing and digital infrastructure, particularly data centres. It highlights the multifaceted challenge of meeting this demand while reducing emissions and ensuring a reliable power supply.
According to the findings, the widespread adoption of electrified heating and transportation could cut Ireland’s annual fuel import bill by nearly €3 billion. However, realizing these benefits will require addressing initial costs and restructuring tariffs and pricing to facilitate efficient electrification aligned with renewable energy generation.
Moreover, the report stresses the critical need for enhancements in grid infrastructure and operational flexibility. Achieving Ireland’s energy goals will hinge on timely investments in grid capacity and upgrades to accommodate the anticipated surge in demand.
As countries around the world seek to balance increasing electricity demand with a growing share of renewable energy, Ireland’s experience serves as a valuable case study. The findings of the IEA report could inform strategies for nations facing similar challenges in the transition to sustainable energy systems.
