Ireland’s energy-related emissions decreased by 8.3% in 2023 reaching their lowest level in 30 years, according to the latest data from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
However, the Energy in Ireland 2024 report, published today (Wednesday, December 11) warns that a faster rate of change and delivery on emissions reductions is needed to ensure Ireland meets legally binding climate targets.
The report highlights that Ireland is still heavily dependant on fossil fuels to meet the country’s energy needs.
Demand
Ireland’s total energy demand increased by 0.8% in 2023, mainly driven by increased energy demand for transport (up 4.5%) and from the commercial services sector (up 6.9%), which includes data centre demand.
The report outlines that increased demand for transport energy came mainly from private car use and aviation, which accounted for 40% and 22% respectively.
In the residential sector, demand for gas, coal, peat, electricity, and oil all dropped in 2023, with energy demand reaching its lowest level in 25 years.
The SEAI said that this was due to a range of factors, including a reduced need for home heating due to a warmer winter, high energy prices and increased home energy upgrades.
There was a slight reduction (0.3%) in energy demand from the agriculture and fisheries sector recorded in 2023.
The report notes only about 4% of emissions from the agriculture sector are energy related.
The SEAI said that most agriculture emissions are methane from livestock, and nitrous oxide from fertiliser and manure management.
SEAI
The data shows that 2023 was a record year for renewables in Ireland energy mix, which contributed to emissions reduction.
Despite the reduction in energy-related emissions, the report notes that Ireland remains “highly dependent on fossil fuels to satisfy our energy needs” at 82.7%.
The SEAI said that “it is clear from the data that the pace of growth of energy demand needs to be strategically managed and timed, so that calculated decisions are made about where and when growth should happen”.
The authority warned that there is “no room for complacency” as early data suggests residential demand for gas and heating oil has increased this year, indicating that residential energy demand and emissions may go up in 2024.
The SEAI said that it is also likely that Ireland’s transport and electricity emissions will exceed their sectoral emission ceiling in the first carbon budget (2021-2025).
Any emissions that exceed the first carbon budget are carried over into the second carbon budget, where they will need to be addressed by even more intensive policies and measures.
Recent reports indicate that Ireland could face considerable fines for not delivering on its climate commitments.
Energy
William Walsh, chief executive of SEAI, said that national support is needed to speed up the deployment of offshore wind, solar, district heating, heat pumps and electric vehicles.
“This year’s data includes a number of welcome achievements in terms of renewables and emissions reductions.
“The question now is do these signals mark the start of a tipping point for critical mass action in our national energy transition.
“We need bold, courageous and committed leadership nationally and across all sectors to avoid missing our non-negotiable carbon budgets and EU targets
“Acting immediately is essential; we can see already that concerted effort and actions deliver results.
“It’s not just the end goal of emission reductions by 2030 or 2050 that matter, but reducing our emissions each and every year, to comply with science-based carbon budgets and sectoral ceilings. These are our non-negotiables,” he said.
Doyle said that the incoming government comes at a time where a re-doubling of effort could see Ireland realising the urgent change needed in a shift away from fossil fuels.
“The challenge seems difficult, but we must remind ourselves of the benefits if we succeed – cleaner air, less energy poverty, enhanced energy security, and a safer, habitable planet for our children,” he said.