06 Jan 2025
Interactive new website provides a breakdown of wind energy generation and associated benefits across 26 countiesWind Energy Ireland has launched a new interactive website that provides a comprehensive comparison of wind energy production and the associated benefits across the 26 counties of the Republic. The County Colours Dashboard is now live at: https://windenergyireland.com/about-wind/wind-energy-by-county.
This innovative platform offers detailed insights into each county’s wind energy contributions, including carbon emissions savings facilitated by local wind farms and the economic impact of community benefit funds and commercial rates paid to county councils.
In 2023, wind energy supplied 35% of Ireland’s electricity, highlighting its critical role in the country’s energy mix. The dashboard provides a county-by-county breakdown of this achievement, enabling users to explore region-specific data.
Leading the way in wind energy generation last year, Kerry produced an impressive 1,664 GWh of energy, followed by Cork with 1,421 GWh and Galway with 833 GWh. For context, one gigawatt-hour (GWh) equals the power consumed annually by approximately 230 Irish families.
These achievements reflect the collaborative efforts of local communities and stakeholders who have been instrumental in driving Ireland’s renewable energy transition.
Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, explained:
“This platform empowers communities, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to better understand and appreciate the substantial contributions each county is making toward our national renewable energy goals. It also highlights the significant economic benefits associated with wind energy generation, such as County Council rates and community benefit funds.”
As Ireland works toward achieving 80% renewable electricity by 2030, Mr. Cunniffe emphasised the need for continued investment and supportive policies to sustain momentum in the wind energy sector.
“We’ve made significant progress in our wind energy journey, and counties that have contributed so much to Ireland’s wind energy output should be proud of their achievements. However, we still have a long way to go.
“The County Colours Dashboard shows notable variance in wind energy output across the 26 counties. While some counties generate significant amounts of energy, others are yet to develop wind projects. This means there is tremendous opportunity for more counties to contribute to Ireland’s clean energy future and benefit from the associated economic opportunities.
“Not only does this mean cleaner, more secure, and cheaper energy for the people of Ireland, but history also shows that energy abundance drives prosperity at the local level.
"Wind Energy Ireland is committed to collaborating with communities, policymakers, and industry partners to deliver more wind farms and ensure an affordable, resilient, and sustainable energy future for everyone.”
Top Wind Energy Generators in 2023
- Kerry – 1,664 GWh
- Cork – 1,421 GWh
- Tipperary – 890 GWh
- Galway – 833 GWh
- Mayo – 829 GWh
- Donegal – 711 GWh
Explore the new interactive platform at: https://windenergyireland.com/about-wind/wind-energy-by-county
