Climate change body warns rollout of onshore solar and wind plants is behind schedule

CCAC chairwoman Marie Donnelly told the Oireachtas climate committee the small number of new onshore wind projects will not keep up with growing electricity demand, and will lead to price increases. Stock picture: PA

The independent body advising the Government on climate change has said it is concerned about the "near absence" of onshore wind projects with planning approval in the past 18 months.

Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) chairwoman Marie Donnelly told TDs and senators at the Oireachtas climate committee that deployment of onshore renewables is not on track and the current connection rates for both onshore wind and solar are significantly lower than Ireland requires to reach its 2025 and 2030 targets.