Latest news with #Pinergy
RTÉ News
07-08-2025
- Business
- RTÉ News
Electricity demand set to grow by two thirds by 2050
Electricity demand is set to grow by two thirds by 2050, a new report shows. This increased demand will be driven in the short term by the needs of data centres, according to the report by Pinergy and global insight business Wood Mackenzie. In the long term, it states that electricity demand growth will be fuelled by changing consumer behaviour towards low-carbon choices, particularly through electric vehicle adoption and the electrification of heating systems in residential and commercial buildings. The 'Energy Transition Outlook: Ireland' report tracks Ireland's performance on the energy transition journey and highlights the critical role that renewables and electrification must play in the country's energy transformation. It reveals that renewables are on track to contribute 80% of generated electricity by 2030 and 93% by 2050. Meanwhile, EV adoption is on course to meet 2025 goals but falls short of 2030 targets by 35%. Heat pump adoption trails the 2030 target by 461,000 units. "Ireland's energy transition is at a crossroads and we must invest in our future," said Enda Gunnell, CEO at Pinergy. "We've set ambitious goals and commitments, but this report makes it clear we must move from aspiration to urgent, tangible action. The time for deliberation is over. "We welcome the planned €3.5bn investment announced in the revised National Development Plan, earmarked for Ireland's electricity grid infrastructure," he added. Mr Gunnell said this funding will be "critical" in order to make the necessary infrastructure investments required. While Ireland is placed 20th for renewables in electricity among the most advanced economies, the report states that it is expected to move to 11th place overall in 2030. However, without adjustments for delays in offshore wind projects, original predictions had placed Ireland in 8th place in this ranking. Denmark leads the way on the top of the leaderboard, achieving 100% renewables by 2030, due to an aggressive climate strategy and greater investment in renewables.
Irish Times
30-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Data centres could consume as much electricity as two million Irish homes by 2030, report predicts
Data centres in Ireland are projected to consume the same amount of electricity as two million homes by 2030 due to their accelerating demands and use of AI, a new report has suggested. The report by energy analysts Wood Mackenzie, in collaboration with the energy company Pinergy, concludes that by 2050, electricity demand will grow by two thirds, reaching 59 terawatt hours (TWh). This will be driven in the short term by data centre needs. Data centres are projected to consume 8.6TWh of electricity by 2030 due to their increasing demands and use of AI. 'This energy consumption is equivalent to powering two million homes, placing significant strain on the grid. However, as the grid capacity increases and electrification of heat and transport intensifies, the share of total power demand for data centres is expected to fall to 16 per cent by 2050,' adds the report published on Wednesday. READ MORE According to figures from the Central Statistics Office last year, data centres accounted for 21 per cent of total metered electricity consumption in 2023, compared with 18 per cent for urban households and 10 per cent for rural homes. The report by energy analysts Wood Mackenzie, in collaboration with the energy company Pinergy, says Ireland could become a net exporter of electricity as early as 2030, enabled by offshore wind and new interconnectors. Ireland's energy transition 'is unstoppable but its success hinges on renewables and the rapid expansion of electrification, especially in transport and heating'. 'In the long term, electricity demand growth will be fuelled by changing consumer behaviour towards low-carbon choices, particularly through EV adoption and electrification of heating systems in residential and commercial buildings,' it says. As Ireland works to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the report says the country must shift to a system powered by low-carbon energy sources to progress towards legally-binding net zero emissions targets set for 2050. 'Ireland's energy transition is at a crossroads and we must invest in our future,' said Pinergy chief executive Enda Gunnell. 'We've set ambitious goals and commitments, but this report makes it clear we must move from aspiration to urgent, tangible action.' The planned €3.5 billion investment under the revised National Development Plan, earmarked for Ireland's grid infrastructure was critical in providing necessary infrastructure, he said. 'A successful energy transition will not only reduce our carbon emissions and protect our environment, but it will also create new jobs, boost our economy and enhance our energy security,' Mr Gunnell added. Renewables are on track 'but at risk following delays to capacity buildout', the report finds. It forecasts a contribution of 80 per cent of generated electricity from wind and solar by 2030, climbing to 93 per cent by 2050, with wind alone accounting for 77 per cent. This will be enabled by a forecasted 56 per cent increase in onshore wind and a 166 per cent rise in solar power compared to current levels. Ireland, however, is projected to fall 4 gigawatts (GW) short of its 5GW offshore wind target by 2030 'as projects suffer delays and cancellations'. EV adoption is on course to meet 2025 goals but falling short of 2030 targets by 35 per cent. Wood Mackenzie says the adoption rate must be accelerated by 54 per cent to meet 2030 targets. Heat pump adoption is 68 per cent behind 2030 targets – equivalent to 461,000 units – and lagging other European countries. Globally, geopolitical turmoil is creating headwinds for the energy transition, said Lindsey Entwistle, senior analyst at Wood Mackenzie, with rising costs and uncertainty across energy supply chains. 'Domestically, the sluggish adoption of critical technologies such as EVs and heat pumps risks delaying the [Irish] transition over the next decade.' The report calls for accelerated grid infrastructure upgrades, deploying the latest energy storage solutions for flexible power supply and streamlining permits to unlock the full potential of renewables. To support variable renewables coming onto the grid, 4.7GW of storage should be installed by 2030, it adds, more than doubling capacity in the next five years to support peak power demand and reduce curtailment. 'Without a robust and adaptable grid, Ireland cannot grow its economy and effectively integrate the increasing volumes of renewable energy that will power the country's future,' Mr Gunnell added. 'The domestic economy is currently very vulnerable due to issues with the national grid, with demand set to grow significantly for electricity... Ireland's energy grid is ageing and needs significant resources, urgent investment and deliverable actions to meet demands and opportunities that come with the energy transition.' Increased renewables will not happen, the report says, without 'addressing supply chain instability, port infrastructure limitations and planning uncertainty in getting offshore wind projects back on track'.
Irish Examiner
29-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Energy transition at a crossroads as data centres to use 20% of power by 2030
Ireland's energy transition is at a crossroads with data centres expected to account for 20% of all power by 2030, and major investment needed to cope with demand, a new report warns. The report by Pinergy in collaboration with global consultancy Wood Mackenzie predicts that Irish electricity demand will grow by two thirds by 2050, with on-grid power generation climbing 16% by 2030, but says that current progress is insufficient to meet key energy targets. The 'Energy Transition Outlook: Ireland' recommends that a wider shift to low-carbon energy sources is needed if Ireland is to meet legally binding net zero targets set for 2050. "Ireland's energy transition is at a crossroads and we must invest in our future," said Pinergy chief executive Enda Gunnell. "We've set ambitious goals and commitments, but this report makes it clear we must move from aspiration to urgent, tangible action. The time for deliberation is over." The report said that EV adoption is on course to meet 2025 goals but falls short of 2030 targets by 35%. In order to meet our EV targets, the report predicts Ireland needs to accelerate our adoption rate by 54%. Heat pump adoption trails 2030 target by 461,000 units, 68% behind 2030 targets. Data centres are projected to consume 8.6 TWh of electricity from the grid by 2030, accelerated by the demands and use of artificial intelligence. "This energy consumption is equivalent to powering two million homes, placing significant strain on the grid. As the grid capacity increases and the electrification of heat and transport intensifies, the share of total power demand for data centres is expected to fall to 16% by 2050." Mr Gunnell welcomed the planned €3.5bn investment announced in the revised National Development Plan earmarked for Ireland's electricity grid infrastructure. "This is badly needed as getting grid connections, large and small can sometimes be slow. We want to see a dynamic agile grid that utilises technologies like AI to deliver a grid fit for the next century that builds upon the work of the last century. The investment announced last week is a great first step, but we may need to see more investment beyond the initial amount in NDP." Ireland is projected to fall 4GW short of its 5GW offshore wind target by 2030 as projects suffer delays and cancellations. "This decade is pivotal to the energy transition and results rather than ambition alone will be the measure of success,' said Lindsey Entwistle, senior analyst at Wood Mackenzie. 'Globally, geopolitical turmoil is creating headwinds for the energy transition. Costs have risen and uncertainty has increased across energy supply chains. Domestically, the sluggish adoption of critical technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps risks delaying the transition over the next decade.' Pinergy supplies 10,000 business and 28,000 residential customers. Mr Gunnell said Ireland's grid must be robust enough to deal with outside factors. "We need a grid which distributes electricity generated by renewables locally both on shore and offshore that ensures we as an island are not exposed to geo-political risks as we have seen since 2022." "We need to invest in a mix of renewables that generate electricity across wind and solar but also hydro and renewable gases together with storage that ensures we have a balanced mix to ensure there are no outages. Some fossil fuels may n
Irish Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Different Strokes: Foster continues seamless slide into the pro ranks
Perfect timing, if the truth be known, as Anna Foster's fourth-place finish in the Amundi German Masters has enabled the 23-year-old Dubliner to carry momentum into this week's KPMG Irish Women's Open at Carton House in Maynooth, Co Kildare. After a stellar amateur career which included victory in last year's Irish Women's Open Strokeplay and standout collegiate performances stateside with Auburn University which earned her All-American recognition, Foster's move into the professional ranks has proven rather seamless after earning her Ladies European Tour card through qualifying school. Foster's travels have already taken her to Australia, South Korea, South Africa, Morocco and various European destinations in her new life on tour, where she is currently 31st on the LET order of merit. In her rookie season, she has performed strongly and will be able to enjoy some home comforts this week, as she bids to keep her form going as part of a 16-strong Irish contingent at Carton House. REPRO FREE ***PRESS RELEASE NO REPRODUCTION FEE*** EDITORIAL USE ONLY Pinergy Brand Ambassador And Professional LET Golfer Anna Foster Ahead Of This Year's KPMG Women's Irish Open 30/6/2025 Pictured is Pinergy brand ambassador and Professional LET Golfer Anna Foster ahead of this year's KPMG Women's Irish Open. Pinergy is proud to stand alongside Foster in a partnership that is a testament to their shared values of ambition and progress, reflecting how Pinergy helps customers take control of their energy future, just as Anna is now powerfully charting her own course in professional golf. Keep an eye across Pinergy's social channels to watch Anna Own The Moment as she prepares for this year's Open. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Ben Brady Although she looked up to Shane Lowry when younger, Foster – who has been signed up by Pinergy as a brand ambassador – remarked: 'I was in Portrush when Shane won the Open. But I am trying to write my own story and not try to compare myself to others.' READ MORE So far, the script is looking good, with that fourth-place finish in Germany providing a level of comfort in kicking on. 'I always knew I could play at this level,' said Foster of finding her feet so quickly on the LET. 'You play with girls in amateur and college golf who you might not think are that impressive, and they go and play on LPGA or LET. It's a sport where there are ups and downs all the time, so you just know when you can play well or not play well. That's the beauty of it in one way, and also the annoying part. 'This year I was just trying to find my feet and get comfortable on tour, not putting any pressure on myself results-wise. To just enjoy myself has been the main thing and let the golf come from that . . . . (fourth in Germany) gives me the freedom and a bit of confidence to go out and allow myself to think that I can win. 'It wouldn't be at the front of my mind, I'm trying to take every shot as it comes, but I have more freedom , order of merit-wise, so I can go out and try do my best for the next few weeks. It's exciting. It is a good place to be in. If someone had said to me at the start of the year that I'd be in this position now, I would have taken it.' With that sense of perfect timing, Foster – guaranteed good support from family and her Elm Club members – will look to take momentum into the KPMG Irish Women's Open. Word of Mouth COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO - JUNE 29: Padraig Harrington of Ireland and Stewart Cink of the United States walk to the 15th tee during the final round of the U.S. Senior Open Championship 2025 at Broadmoor Golf Club on June 29, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. (Photo by) 'He's the ultimate competitor and a quality individual. I have the highest respect for his game and for him as a person. Even though he's a peer, he's a guy I've always also looked up to because I've played with him so much and I admire the way he . . . he kind of treats golf the way I want to treat golf myself. He's in the present. He never gives up. He's always got a good attitude. That's the hallmark of a high quality player for a long time, and that's what he is' – Stewart Cink on Pádraig Harrington, after losing out to the Irishman in the US Senior Open in Colorado. By the Numbers: 18 The Final Qualifying for the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush takes place at four links courses – in England and Scotland – where 288 players will compete today for a minimum of 20 spots (five at each venue). There are 18 Irish players competing in the 36-hole qualifiers: 11 at Dundonald Links – Rowan Lester, Brendan McCarroll, Gavin Tiernan, Michael McGeady, Dermot McElroy, Keith Shannon, Liam Nolan, Ruaidhrí McGee, Finlay Eager, Caolan Rafferty and John Murphy; one at Royal Cinques Port – Graeme McDowell; one at Burnham & Berrow – Niall Kearney; and five at West Lancashire – Conor Purcell, Paul McBride, Alex Maguire, Thomas Abom and Ronan Mullarney. On this day: July 1st, 1990 Philip Walton entered the professional ranks after an honour-laden amateur career which included two Walker Cup appearances, but the Malahide man's bid for a breakthrough title on the European Tour took time to deliver. PARIS - JULY 1: Philip Walton of Ireland lifts up the trophy after winning the Peugeot French Open held on July 1, 1990 at the Chantilly G.C. in Paris, France. (Photo by) Having turned pro in 1983, the wait – some seven years later – came in rather spectacular style when the Dubliner defeated Bernhard Langer at the second tie hole of sudden death in the Peugeot French Open at Chantilly. Walton had finished in the top 100 of the European Tour order of merit each year after turning professional but found a win hard to come by, until deliverance came in the French Open where carded rounds of 73-66-67-69 for a total of five-under-par 275 to tie Langer and then sealed the deal in the playoff. It gave Walton a first of three career wins on the circuit. Social Swing Tough old week but solid enough and we don't expect or want anything else from a @usga Senior Open. Congratulations @padraig_h. Royal Portrush next. Can't wait – Darren Clarke confirming he'll be teeing up on home turf at the 153rd Open in a fortnight. Every trophy. Every triumph. It's all earned. Congrats to @padraig_h who trusted his NEW 2025 Pro V1 to bring home his second US Senior Open title. #1ballingolf – Titleist bigging up their man Pádraig for his US Senior Open win. Little trip to Portrush to check it out before — Shane Lowry (@ShaneLowryGolf) Little trip to Portrush to check it out before @TheOpen. Course is looking great and everything ready for a big week – Shane Lowry back in Ireland for the first time since Christmas and taking in a reconnaissance visit to the scene of his claret jug win in 2019. Know the Rules Q In stroke play, a player removes an out-of-bounds stake which interferes with their swing. What is the ruling? A The player gets two penalty strokes unless they replace the stake to eliminate any improvement and restore the original conditions. (Definition of Boundary Object, Rule 81.a and Rule 8.1c: a boundary object cannot be moved to improve the conditions affecting the stroke. However, the player can avoid penalty by replacing the stake to eliminate any improvement and restore the original conditions.) In the Bag Pádraig Harrington - US Senior Open COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO - JUNE 29: Padraig Harrington of Ireland hoists the Francis D. Ouimet Memorial Trophy after winning the U.S. Senior Open Championship 2025 at Broadmoor Golf Club on June 29, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. (Photo by) Driver – Titleist TSR3 (9 degrees) 3-wood – TaylorMade Stealth 2 (15 degrees) 5-wood – TaylorMade Stealth (18 degrees) Irons – Wilson Staff Model Tour RB Utility (4), Wilson Staff Model CB Forged (5-PW) Wedges – Wilson Staff Model (52, 58 and 64 degrees) Putter – Odyssey White Hot 2-ball Ball – Titleist ProvV1
Irish Examiner
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Examiner
Rookie Anna Foster finding form ahead of Irish Open
Anna Foster always felt she could compete at the level required to be a Ladies European Tour player. That ability was evident over the weekend as she tied for fourth at the German Masters, the best finish so far of her professional career. Foster shot four-under at The Golf and Country Club Seddiner See, five shots behind winner Shannon Tan. 'The golf course we played in Germany was quite tough,' Pinergy ambassador Foster, ranked 436th in the world, explained on Monday morning. 'I just allowed myself to make mistakes and just kind of move on straight away, stay really patient throughout the week. My main goal is to try and hang around, just kind of be there or thereabouts. The Sunday was tough, so I was really happy with how I managed to kind of stick in and climb a good bit up the leaderboard.' The Dublin golfer took the step up from amateur level before last year's Women's Irish Open and is now 10 months into her professional career. She earned a tour card at Q School in December at the same time as fellow Irish golfers Sara Byrne and Annabel Wilson. 'We've got to travel to some really cool places and it's a great way to see the world,' she said about her rookie season on tour. 'I was lucky enough to get through Q School and get my full card, which has given me the freedom to plan my year up to a certain point and affords me to take weeks off here and there, which is definitely needed.' The transition from college golf - she played at the Alabama-based Auburn University - has been relatively easy for Foster. It's the off-course factors, like getting the right team around her, which have required adjustment. 'This is now my business and career compared to it being a hobby, even though amateur golf is now basically semi-professional at this point anyway,' she said. 'Golf-wise, there wasn't a huge step up or transition. 'The first half of the year was quite travel heavy, being outside of Europe, in Australia and South Africa and Korea. Now that we're back in Europe, it feels so much easier.' The presence of plenty of familiar faces like Byrne and Wilson, along with Olivia Mehaffey, Lauren Walsh, and Canice Screene has also made the transition easier. 'There's a nice group of Irish girls out on tour as well, so that makes a huge difference in the small things throughout the week, like sharing accommodation and just always having a smiling face in the players' lounge,' said Foster. 'We've known each other almost 10 years. To be able to come up through the amateur and college system and come out the other end, we all get each other. There's also a healthy level of competition as well between us. We want each other to do well. We also want to beat each other as well.' At this week's Women's Irish Open, which like last year is being played at Carton House, there will be a record 16 Irish competitors - seven professional and nine amateur. Earlier this year, Foster's home club Elm Park held a fundraiser to ease her into the professional ranks. It took off some pressure to perform in those early months. Now she's also easing that pressure. "I have a bit more freedom finishing fourth last week, Order of Merit wise," she said. "I'm comfortable now for the next while so I can go out and just try and do my best for the next few weeks. It's exciting. 'It's a good place to be in. If someone had said it to me at the start of the year that I'd be in this position now, I would have definitely taken it.'
