Ireland’s Wind Power Surges in January, Cutting Costs Despite Record Demand

24 February 2026

January data further highlights the impact of renewables during cold months with high energy demand. Wind farms supplied 34 per cent of Ireland’s electricity last month, generating approximately 1,400 GWh — one of the strongest January performances on record.

Colder temperatures drove electricity demand to a January record of 4,087 GWh as heating needs increased across homes and businesses.

Despite this, wholesale electricity prices fell to €126.95 per megawatt-hour, down from €167.51 in January 2025, with wind energy playing a key role in driving down costs.

On days with the highest levels of wind generation, average wholesale prices dropped to €101.84 per megawatt-hour. By contrast, prices rose to €145.84 on days when the system relied almost entirely on imported fossil fuels.

However, the report from Baringa also shows that further savings were limited by a lack of electricity grid capacity, meaning some wind farms were prevented from generating power because the grid could not take all of the renewable energy available.

The latest figures from Infranua show that Offaly ranked as Ireland’s highest producing county for wind energy last month (179 GWh). It was followed by Kerry (168 GWh), Cork (155 GWh) and Tyrone (138 GWh). Tipperary secured the final spot in the top five, generating 111 GWh.

Noel Cunniffe:

“January’s figures show the benefits of wind energy but even more could be achieved if we invest further in Ireland’s electricity grid. Every time clean electricity is wasted due to grid constraints, consumers pay more for dirtier, imported, energy.

“Strengthening our electricity network is essential if we are to fully enjoy the benefits of Ireland’s renewable resources and to protect families and businesses from the fossil fuel market.”

The results of the January wind energy report are based on EirGrid’s SCADA data compiled by MullanGrid, market data provided by ElectroRoute and county-level wind generation data provided by Infranua.