Renewable Electricity in Ireland 2015 (2016 Report)

Developing renewable energy is an integral part of Ireland’s sustainable energy objectives and climate change strategy. Renewable energy contributes to meeting all three energy policy goals, namely: energy security, cost competitiveness and protection of the environment through the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. With lower or no net emissions from renewable energy sources compared with fossil fuels, renewable energy sources contribute to the decarbonisation of energy supply and reduction in GHG emissions. They also contribute to energy security, being, for the most part, indigenous energy sources. In a period of volatile energy costs, renewables can also contribute to cost competitiveness by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and hedging against further fossil fuel price volatility. There is the potential, in the case of some renewable sources, for Ireland to become a net exporter of renewable energy and technology.