W/WIND, IRELAND WILL GET 15% NEW ENERGY BY 2010

EirGrid Launches Report On Ireland’s Power Requirements 2009-2015; Outlook for generation capacity remains positive
November 30, 2009 (EirGrid)

"EirGrid, the Transmission System Operator, has published the latest Generation Adequacy Report (GAR) which looks at Ireland’s power generating capacity needs over the next seven years (2010-2016).

"The GAR highlights the levels of generation capacity expected to be on the Irish system and the opportunities for new entrants to build power stations and supply the competitive electricity market."

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"The adequacy situation is strongly positive for the next seven years. A surplus of at least 700 MW is observed for all scenarios studied…due to new generation commissioning, increased interconnection and improved generator availability, as well as a reduction in…actual and forecasted demand.

"The median forecast in the Report does not show an increase on 2008 levels until 2013. This is due to lower economic activity and a lower level of energy intensity per unit of GDP caused by greater energy efficiency and a maturing knowledge-based economy."

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"…[I]n the long term, there is likely to be greater emphasis on energy efficiency. But for the electricity sector, this will be counter-balanced by greater use of electricity as an energy source in the transportation and heating sectors…Increased interconnection contributes to the adequacy position. The East-West Interconnector is due to be commissioned in 2012. This will connect the Irish and British transmission systems and carry up to 500 MW in either direction.

"Analysis shows that the target of 15% electricity from renewable sources in 2010 will be achieved. This is contingent on at least 120 MW of wind generation connecting during 2010. It is expected that this figure will be exceeded."