Gas demand stable in 2020 despite uncertainty
Updated / Monday, 8 Feb 2021
07:23
Overall gas demand fell by a very marginal 0.3% last year, Gas Networks Ireland said
The effect of Covid-19 restrictions on economic activity in certain sectors was reflected in a marked reduction in gas consumption in those sectors last year.
According to the 2020 Gas Demand Statement from Gas Networks Ireland, there was a reduction in gas usage of over a third on areas such as leisure and laundry.
Gas consumption in construction and travel was down by a quarter, while in the hotel industry it was down by just over 10%.
However, the reduction in these areas was made up for by a surge in demand for gas in areas of the economy that supported the shift to remote working and business being conducted online, as well as healthcare.
Demand for gas in Ireland fell by less than 1pc last year despite economic disruption due to the Covid-19 virus, according to a statement from Gas Networks Ireland (GNI).
17ha solar farm planned for Carlow
Plans are in the pipeline for a new solar farm on 17ha of land in Co. Carlow.
Elgin Energy Services Ltd. has applied to Carlow County Council for planning permission for the development at Ardnehue and Friarstown.
A Natura Impact Statement has been included as part of the application.
Solar farm development
The 17.6ha area would comprise photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames; an on-site 38kV substation; 10 single-storey inverter/transformer stations; security fencing; a palisade double security gate; and two storage containers.
The company also wants permission to install CCTV, a temporary construction-stage wheel wash system and all associated development works.
January 25, 2021 11:32 am
The Irish Wind Energy Association has rebranded as Wind Energy Ireland, as part of a wider brand refresh.
Making the announcement today (Monday, January 25), the organisation said there will be a new visual identity being rolled out on all digital platforms.
It is Ireland’s largest renewable energy organisation, with more than 150 members.
Wind energy is a growing sector in Ireland, and this country is number one in the world for the share of electricity demand met by onshore wind, according to Wind Energy Ireland.
There are just under 400 wind farms on the island of Ireland; with just over 300 of them in the Republic of Ireland.