​New research reveals that over half of Irish businesses are now sourcing their electricity from renewable energy. The survey also found that 90% of industry leaders are willing to pay a premium for certified renewable energy.

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Of the 100 businesses surveyed, most reported that they have committed to renewable energy agreements to meet customer expectations, lower their environmental impact, and maintain cost competitiveness. When asked about the most important factors when signing corporate power purchase agreements, 20% of respondents highlighted cost, 14% cited renewable energy availability, and 12% mentioned reducing carbon emissions.

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The research, conducted by renewable electricity company Statkraft, surveyed businesses in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, data centres, and transportation. It also revealed that 80% of Irish businesses would consider locating near renewable energy sources or energy parks.

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More than 60% of businesses plan to invest in on-site renewable energy and emissions-reduction technologies within the next three years. Specifically, 60% plan to install solar panels, 47% aim to adopt electric vehicles for commercial use, 40% intend to set up on-site wind turbines, and 33% are looking to invest in battery energy storage. However, only 28% are considering investment in industrial heat pump technology.

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"Industry leaders recognize the financial and environmental benefits of renewables—more than half of those surveyed are already powering their operations with renewable energy," said Kevin O'Donovan, Managing Director of Statkraft Ireland and UK. "This trend will only strengthen as businesses continue to reduce emissions and work toward sustainability goals."

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The findings were released as the Wind Energy Trade Show opens in Dublin. Wind Energy Ireland announced that the country is on course to achieve 5,000 MW of installed onshore wind capacity by the year’s end.

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"Ireland offers tremendous potential for investors, boasting some of the best untapped offshore wind resources globally, a skilled workforce, and extensive onshore wind experience supported by favourable policies," said Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland. "Our first wind farm was established in 1992 in Co. Mayo, and today, single turbines match the capacity of that entire facility."

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Cunniffe, however, highlighted ongoing challenges in the wind energy sector. "The planning system is hindering too many promising projects, and our grid capacity is insufficient to handle the energy output from our wind farms," he stated. "Addressing these issues should be a top priority for the next government if we are to build a modern, resilient electricity grid for the 21st century," he concluded.