35% of Ireland’s Electricity Comes from Wind Power in First Five Months of 2024

Wind farms in Ireland have generated 35% of the country’s electricity in the first five months of 2024, according to the latest report from Wind Energy Ireland.

The May Wind Energy report revealed that electricity demand in Ireland increased slightly to 3,241 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in May 2024, up from 3,181 GWh in the same month last year. While the share of electricity demand met by wind farms was 21%, below the normal average for wind energy in May, a record month for solar power partially compensated for the shortfall.

Cork took the lead in wind power generation, producing 76 GWh of electricity, followed closely by Kerry, Galway, Tipperary, and Tyrone. This marks the first time Cork has surpassed Kerry as the leading source of wind energy in the country.

Justin Moran, Director of External Affairs at Wind Energy Ireland, praised the progress, stating, “Every time a wind turbine or solar panel generates electricity, it reduces our reliance on imported fossil fuels, pushes down wholesale electricity prices, and increases our supply of clean energy to power our homes and local communities.”

The report’s findings are a testament to Ireland’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing its use of renewable energy sources. As part of this effort, Wind Energy Ireland has launched its “Get Out in the Wind” campaign, encouraging the public to visit wind farms and experience Ireland’s clean energy firsthand.

With trails for hiking, walking, biking, and running, picnic spots, and an abundance of local wildlife, wind farms offer a unique setting for family days out and Irish adventures. The campaign aims to promote the importance of renewable energy and the benefits it provides to the environment and local communities.

As Ireland continues to work towards a sustainable future, the progress made in wind energy generation is a promising step in the right direction.