A success story - Wind energy

DURING stormy weather like this, it is easy to understand the power of nature.

It is also possible to see how it can be harnessed in a positive, uplifting way — though those struggling to repel flood waters might wait for another opportunity to celebrate nature’s bounty.

Nevertheless, the report from Vayu, the Irish gas and electricity supplier backed by mining giant Glencore, that nearly a quarter of our electricity demand — 23% — is now satisfied through wind energy, is to be welcomed. Wind generation reached a peak of 2,514 megawatts on January 7, when it accounted for over 48% of demand.

This is essential progress as energy generated by burning carbon fuels is an increasingly unsatisfactory option as we must cut our carbon footprint by 40% in less than two decades. This progress is crucial, even if oil and gas prices are very low at the moment. The story of wind-generated energy seems a success, but issues remain around the location of wind farms. The industry should be encouraged to focus on off-shore sites, thereby making a good story even better.