Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 26, In March 2025, Ireland experienced a surge in solar energy production, driven by clear, sunny weather. On March 25, grid-scale solar generation reached a new peak of 750 MW, surpassing the previous record set in July 2024 by 18 MW. This marked a significant milestone for the country’s renewable energy sector.

Throughout March, solar power contributed 2.8% of Ireland’s total electricity generation, making it the third-highest month for solar output, excluding rooftop solar. During particularly sunny periods, solar’s share peaked at over 18%, highlighting its growing role in the energy mix. “March was a landmark month for solar power on the electricity grid,” said Charlie McGee, system operational manager at EirGrid, Ireland’s grid operator.

The solar sector’s progress was further emphasized by Conall Bolger of the Irish Solar Energy Association. “March’s solar output shows Ireland’s solar sector is no longer in its infancy,” he said. “With utility-scale generation regularly topping 700 MW, solar has become the third largest source of electricity in key months. That’s a transformational shift in just three years.”

In addition to solar, March saw another record on March 14, when grid-scale battery storage discharged 300 MW, the highest level to date. McGee noted that this, combined with a wind power record set in February, underscores the importance of battery storage to manage renewable energy during high-demand periods.

Ireland’s total electricity demand in March was 3,061 GWh, with 39% met by renewable sources, including solar and wind. Gas remained the largest source at 39%, while 18% of demand was met through imported electricity. The country aims to increase renewable energy to 80% by 2030, as outlined in the Climate Action Plan updated on April 15.

To support this goal, EirGrid announced a €1 billion procurement program on April 10 to develop an offshore electricity grid, focusing on connecting offshore renewable sources to the onshore system. Progress continues on interconnector projects, with the Greenlink Interconnector to the UK operational as of April 16 and the Celtic Interconnector to France expected by 2027. These efforts aim to enhance grid reliability and integrate renewable energy effectively.

The March data, based on real-time 15-minute SCADA readings, is provisional and unmetered, according to EirGrid.