In 2018, Ireland exceeded it’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than five million tonnes. As a result, it looks unlikely that the country will meet it’s carbon commitments.
Under the Paris Agreement, Ireland agreed to reduce our carbon emissions to 20% below our 2015 levels by 2020. As it stands, it looks like we will exceed our target by 5-6%. This will be the third year in a row that Ireland will have exceeded our target. As a result, Ireland will likely be subject to fine in the hundred millions. Following global protests and the Green Wave of the 2019 elections, Climate Action has moved to the forefront of the countries consciousness. In June, the Government launched their Climate Action Plan and the 2020 Budget also focused heavily on climate action and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
However, other government policies have actually increased the countries emissions. The national policy to expand milk production has increased agricultural emissions by 1.9%.
Furthermore, previous cold winters has led to an increased demand in home heating leading to 7.9% rise in household emissions. The country is still heavily reliant on oil which the government hopes to counteract by installing 600,000 heat pumps by 2030.
Renewable energy resources are set to play a key part in reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to heat pumps, the government aims to have 1,000,000 electric cars in the county by 2030. They also hope to have 70% of our electricity generated by renewable sources.
Currently, there are a number of home energy grants available for homeowners who want to move to renewable energy sources.
If you would like to know more about our renewable energy solutions call one of our experts on (042) 974 9322.
