The Irish Wind Energy Association has welcomed the announcement that 44% of Northern Ireland's electricity came from renewables between July 2018 and Jul 2019.

This is the first time that the 40% target has been achieved in NI over a full year with wind energy leading the way, providing more than 85% of all renewable electricity.

Dr David Connolly, CEO of the Irish Wind Energy Association, said: “This is a fantastic achievement, a sign that we are progressing towards reducing C02 emissions in the energy sector.

"This should encourage us in the Republic of Ireland to try harder because it looks like we will just fall short of our 40% target."

70% target

Concerns are now growing around the Government's delays in finalising the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). The scheme is to provide the support for next generation of renewable electricity: wind, solar and other technologies to achieve Minister Bruton’s target of 70% renewable energy by 2030.

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