Ireland will miss its 2020 renewables target despite a strong performance from onshore wind, according to a new report.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland found renewables supplied 11% of total energy use in 2018, the latest year for which there is data.
The country, which has a 16% target, is ranked 26 of 28 EU countries on progress, added the SEAI in its Renewable Energy in Ireland 2020 report.
Electricity was the best performing sector with 33% generated mainly by wind, while transport and heat lagged behind.
Energy Minister Richard Bruton said: “This report is based on 2018 data which pre-dates the Climate Action Plan. The findings underline the importance and urgency of the work set out in that plan. I am convinced that the all of government approach underpinned by new Climate legislation is the way forward.”
He added: “However, getting back on track for our 2030 target is only the first step. We now need to identify how we can increase that ambition and set new targets for 2030 and 2050. As we design a Recovery Plan from this present Covid crisis, we need to do everything possible to rebuild on a sustainable foundation, consistent with confronting the Climate Emergency.”