Northern Ireland’s Renewable Electricity Generation Declines Again

Renewable electricity generation in Northern Ireland has experienced another decrease, according to the latest rolling annual figures. Data from the Department for the Economy indicates that 44.5% of metered electricity consumption in the region originated from local renewable sources between October 2023 and September 2024. This represents a 2.9% reduction compared to the equivalent 12-month period of 2022-2023, which also recorded a decline. The contribution from wind generation has also fallen, decreasing from 83.4% in 2022/23 to 81.9%. Other sources, including biogas, biomass, solar, and landfill gas, accounted for the remaining 18.1%. Monthly variations in renewable generation can be significant, primarily influenced by weather conditions. Northern Ireland has set a goal to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. However, industry experts have issued warnings that this target is likely to be missed. Steven Agnew, the director of RenewableNI, stated that Northern Ireland is falling behind. He remarked, “Since March this year, which recorded the full 2023 calendar year, every report has shown a decrease.” He added, “Meanwhile our neighbours are reporting continued growth.” Agnew further commented, “Once Northern Ireland was the renewable energy leader and others looked on in envy. Our last renewable electricity support scheme delivered the target two years ahead of expected – meeting 40% of people’s electricity needs coming from renewables by 2018.” He concluded, “And then we had a policy vacuum that has seen Northern Ireland go from leaders to laggards.” The Department for the Economy has consulted on a Renewable Electricity Support Scheme, which is currently awaiting final approval. Over the past decade leading up to September 2024, total electricity consumption in Northern Ireland has decreased by 10.7%, while renewable generation has increased by 108.6%.