Renewable energy sources covered 48% of Ireland’s electricity consumption in October 2026, up from 43% in September and 45% in October 2025, according to provisional data published by grid operator EirGrid. Wind power was the main contributor, accounting for 40% of the electricity used during the month, while grid-scale solar represented around 4% of the energy mix.

Wind generation reached 1,237 GWh in October, compared with 1,015 GWh in September. Meanwhile, natural gas accounted for 38% of electricity generation, while imports through interconnectors supplied a further 13%. Total electricity system demand stood at 3,101 GWh, up from 2,857 GWh in the previous month.

EirGrid said Ireland can currently accommodate renewable generation of up to 75% of electricity at any one time, with plans to increase this threshold to 95%. The figures come as the grid operator prepares for higher seasonal demand during the colder months and shorter evenings.

In its Winter Outlook 2026–2027, covering the period from 2 November 2026 to 4 April 2027, EirGrid forecasts adequate generation capacity for the winter ahead and a continued reduction in the risk of system alerts. The report indicates an improved outlook compared with recent years, with a notably lower risk of insufficient generation capacity to meet electricity demand.

Commenting on the October figures, Diarmaid Gillespie, EirGrid's Director of System Operations, highlighted wind's contribution to renewable electricity generation and described the results as a positive indicator of progress towards a more sustainable electricity grid. He also stressed that the operator remains focused on managing the existing system while preparing for rising electricity demand and a growing share of renewable generation.