Wind power output reached a record 1,564 megawatts (MW) in Ireland this morning, enough to power more than 1m homes, the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) reported.
The record output, recorded at 8am, corresponded to more than 45pc of the Irish electricity demand at that time, according to figures from EirGrid.
EirGrid monitors electricity generation and usage across Ireland.
The IWEA’s chief executive Kenneth Matthews said the new peak shows the vital role wind energy is already playing in Ireland’s domestic energy supply, as sustained levels of wind generation are being created.
“As global talks continue on combating climate change, we are proud that Ireland is leading the way in demonstrating the potential of wind energy,” Matthews said.
In addition to the environmental benefits clean energy offers, Ireland is also seeing new opportunities in terms of jobs and investment, with more than 3,400 people already employed in the clean-energy sector, Matthews added.
“This record today is our new benchmark, but I’m confident that Ireland and its plentiful supply of wind has more records in store for the future.”
Shamrock and windmills image via Shutterstock
