NI energy targets could be missed due to unused renewable energy

Unused and wasted renewable energy will cause Northern Ireland to miss its 2030 power emissions target by more than 20%, a consultancy firm says.

The forecast, from Cornwall Insight, says a reduction of around 50% is likely, rather than the 73% aim.

It adds that almost 40% of wind energy generated in Northern Ireland in December 2024 went unused due to restrictions in the power grid.

And it expects emissions to rise in the near term, due to increasing demand and the slow expansion of renewable generation.

The Republic of Ireland is also expected to fall short of its 2030 target of 75%, although emissions there are expected to decline steadily.

The firm said increased investment in infrastructure and energy storage will be critical in…