Energy Transition In Ireland – November Update On Targets, RESS Auctions And Grid Development Policy

As Ireland increases its renewable energy target – now aiming to meet up to 80% of electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030 – we look at latest developments in the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme ("RESS") and grid development policy, both vital to the success of energy transition.

Several recent policy documents, including the Climate Action Plan 2021, have indicated the Government's intention to meet up to 80% of electricity demand from renewable resources by 2030. This would represent around a doubling of current levels.

In terms of installed renewable capacity, the Climate Action Plan 2021 commits to 15GW of new capacity (comprised of around 5GW of offshore wind, 8GW of onshore wind and 1.5-2.5 GW of solar PV). This would represent more than a quadrupling of current renewable capacity. (Installed wind energy capacity was 4.3GW at the end of 2020 according to the EirGrid Capacity Statement).