The renewable energy sources provided more than half of the country’s electricity demand in February, according to provisional data released by Ireland’s transmission system operator, EirGrid. Wind power alone accounted for nearly 48% of all electricity used, with a total of 1,411 GWh generated from wind energy throughout the month. Notably, February also saw a new record for wind-powered electricity, with a peak generation of 3,884 Megawatts on the evening of February 13.

Overall, renewables contributed 54.5% of Ireland’s electricity in February, with contributions from wind, solar, and hydropower. In total, the country's electricity demand for the month reached 2,918 GWh. Meanwhile, gas generation provided 31% of electricity, with 12% imported through interconnection and 2% derived from coal. The remaining 1% came from other sources.

Source: EirGrid

EirGrid continues to lead Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon energy future, working toward a government target of ensuring 80% of electricity comes from renewable sources. The electricity grid can currently accommodate up to 75% of its energy needs from renewables at any one time, a threshold known as the system non-synchronous penetration (SNSP) limit. EirGrid is actively working to increase this limit.

Charlie McGee, EirGrid's System Operational Manager, commented, "February was one of our strongest months on record for renewables on the grid, highlighted by the new peak wind record of 3,884 Megawatts on February 13. This achievement was supported by a diverse mix of generation sources, ensuring a stable and reliable power flow across the grid."