Bridging the renewable divide: Lessons from Ireland’s coal-free leap

As the global climate crisis intensifies, the race to decarbonise energy systems has become a defining challenge for governments, writes Neasa Quigley, Senior Partner, Carson McDowell.

In July 2025, the Republic of Ireland marked a historic milestone: its first coal-free month of electricity generation. This achievement – driven by strategic investment and policy alignment – stands in stark contrast to Northern Ireland’s stagnating renewable energy sector, highlighting a growing divergence on the island.

Ireland’s transition away from coal was not accidental. The closure of Moneypoint, the country’s last coal-fired power station, was a deliberate move backed by robust infrastructure planning and a clear policy trajectory. In the same month, renewables supplied 32 per cent of Ireland’s electricity, with wind contributing 24 per cent and solar reaching a record 798MW. While gas remains dominant at 51 per cent, the momentum toward a cleaner mix is undeniable.

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland is at a crossroads. Progress has plateaued despite achieving a higher renewable share of 45.8 per cent over the past year. Grid constraints, underinvestment, and policy inertia have led to increased curtailment of renewable output. The region’s draft Climate Action Plan 2023-2027, currently under consultation, outlines ambitious goals including net zero emissions by 2050. Yet without urgent and decisive action, these targets risk becoming aspirational rather than achievable.

The contrast between the two jurisdictions offers a compelling lesson: ambition must be matched by execution. Ireland’s success stems from coordinated efforts across government, industry, and regulators. Northern Ireland must now follow suit – accelerating grid upgrades, incentivising solar and long duration energy storage, and streamlining planning processes.

This is not merely a technical challenge; it is a leadership imperative. Climate action is a shared responsibility, and the island’s energy future will be stronger if both sides move in tandem. Collaboration on cross-border grid integration, shared innovation, and policy harmonisation could unlock new potential and resilience.

As Northern Ireland finalises its Climate Action Plan, the opportunity is clear: to reignite momentum, embrace bold reforms, and learn from Ireland’s coal-free breakthrough. The path to net zero is not linear, but with vision and commitment, it can be shared.

Carson McDowell’s energy and renewables team comprises specialist renewable energy solicitors who are widely regarded as leaders in their field. The team’s extensive involvement in significant and regionally important energy projects positions Carson McDowell as one of the most active and experienced law firms within the energy sector in Northern Ireland.

If you have any queries relating to any of the matters mentioned in this article or for more information on how Carson McDowell can assist your business, please contact Neasa Quigley, Senior Partner and Head of the energy and renewables team.

E: neasa.quigley@carson-mcdowell.com
W: carson-mcdowell.com