Ireland shuts last coal plant, becomes 15th coal-free country in Europe (2025) (pv-magazine.com)

Article summary

Ireland has shut down its last coal plant, becoming the 15th coal-free country in Europe. The 915 MW Moneypoint coal plant in County Clare was closed, and the site will now serve as a backup, burning heavy fuel oil in emergency situations until 2029. Ireland has been increasing its renewable energy generation, with wind power accounting for 37% of its electricity in 2024. The closure is seen as a significant step towards reducing the country's reliance on fossil fuels.

Main themes

• Coal plant closure
• Renewable energy transition
• Energy policy
• Fossil fuel dependence
• European energy landscape

What commenters say

• The closure of the coal plant is a positive step towards reducing Ireland's carbon footprint, but it may not necessarily lead to a significant reduction in overall emissions if the energy gap is filled by other fossil fuels.
• Ireland's transition to renewable energy is underway, with wind power playing a major role, but there are still challenges to be addressed, such as grid capacity and energy storage.
• The UK has not stopped building wind power, and in fact, has a significant amount of installed wind capacity, with both onshore and offshore wind farms being constructed in recent years.
• The idea that the UK stopped building wind power is a misconception, and the country has continued to invest in wind energy, with plans for further expansion in the coming years.
• The closure of the coal plant may lead to an increased reliance on natural gas, which could undermine Ireland's efforts to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
• Ireland's energy policy should prioritize the development of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and meet its climate goals.
• The use of heavy fuel oil as a backup at the Moneypoint site is not a long-term solution and should be phased out as soon as possible to minimize environmental impacts.
• The transition to renewable energy requires a comprehensive approach, including investments in grid infrastructure, energy storage, and demand management, to ensure a reliable and efficient energy supply.