Wind energy has delivered a £4 benefit to each Northern Ireland consumer since 2000, according to a report produced for the Northern Ireland Renewables Industry Group (NIRIG).
The report, based on analysis by Baringa Partners, noted that over one third of Northern Ireland’s electricity comes from wind, making it one of the biggest sources of energy in the country.
Baringa Partners’ data in the study demonstrates how wind has pushed down the wholesale cost of electricity, reduces fuel imports and helps to avoid compliance fines.
These benefits, the report states, more than offset wind associated costs, which includes support costs, network upgrades and grid constraint costs.
NIRIG Chair Rachel Anderson said: “This report confirms what the wind industry knows from our work on the ground.
“We understand the value that wind brings to communities and consumers.
“When you translate this to pounds and pence, it means that using wind energy has saved £4 per person every year in Northern Ireland over the last 20 years.”
She said NIRIG is “delighted” to see confirmation of the benefits of wind energy for consumers.
“Our long-term commitment to reducing Northern Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuel generation has delivered improvements in our electricity system, reduces dangerous emissions and has actually paid back to people’s pockets,” said Anderson.
Northern Ireland could reach 70% renewable electricity by 2030 with no additional cost to the consumer according to NIRIG analysis carried out this year.