Ireland’s transition to renewable energy could lead to higher electricity prices and reduced reliability unless key challenges are addressed, according to a new report by the National Economic and Social Council (NESC).
Despite the promise of long-term cost savings from wind and solar energy, the report finds that Ireland currently has the highest electricity prices in the EU, and these may increase further during the shift away from fossil fuels.
While renewable generation is becoming more cost-effective globally, the report warns that Ireland’s energy policy lacks coordination, and key industry stakeholders are not aligned on a clear path forward. The council describes the policy direction as moving "into fog," calling for immediate, decisive action.
The report also raises concerns about the reliability of the electricity supply, which may worsen unless planning and infrastructure bottlenecks are addressed during the transition.
Dr Cathal FitzGerald, Senior Analyst at NESC, said improving the conditions for clean energy infrastructure delivery is vital. That includes streamlining planning and consents, investing in grid capacity, and addressing critical shortages in skills, finance, ports, shipping, and supply chains.
The report highlights the absence of a comprehensive national estimate for the economic benefits of achieving Ireland’s green energy targets, such as job creation, sales, and energy exports.
It concludes by urging the Government to take strategic action now to boost Ireland’s resilience and ensure the country doesn’t fall behind in delivering a secure, affordable and sustainable energy future.
Despite the promise of long-term cost savings from wind and solar energy, the report finds that Ireland currently has the highest electricity prices in the EU, and these may increase further during the shift away from fossil fuels.
While renewable generation is becoming more cost-effective globally, the report warns that Ireland’s energy policy lacks coordination, and key industry stakeholders are not aligned on a clear path forward. The council describes the policy direction as moving "into fog," calling for immediate, decisive action.
The report also raises concerns about the reliability of the electricity supply, which may worsen unless planning and infrastructure bottlenecks are addressed during the transition.
Dr Cathal FitzGerald, Senior Analyst at NESC, said improving the conditions for clean energy infrastructure delivery is vital. That includes streamlining planning and consents, investing in grid capacity, and addressing critical shortages in skills, finance, ports, shipping, and supply chains.
The report highlights the absence of a comprehensive national estimate for the economic benefits of achieving Ireland’s green energy targets, such as job creation, sales, and energy exports.
It concludes by urging the Government to take strategic action now to boost Ireland’s resilience and ensure the country doesn’t fall behind in delivering a secure, affordable and sustainable energy future.
