Wind must be limited to 50% of electricity supply

Eirgrid’s report on the grid’s operating constraints is published online at www.eirgrid.com/media/Transmission%20Constraint%20Groups%20Version%201%204%2019July2012.pdf.

Page six states how non-synchronised generation, including wind interconnection with the UK and our pumped storage, must be kept below 50% of the mix. We already have 2GW of wind energy installed, and on many windy nights this year demand for power fell to near that, yet at no time did wind ever supply that demand. Our average demand for electricity is 3.5GW, so 2GW is 57% of consumption. All wind energy must be purchased and excessive generation is turned off, but still must be paid for in consumer bills. Why, then, are we planning to double our wind capacity, when its contribution can never exceed 50% and our renewable targets are 40%?

Caitriona Cullinane