Industrial emissions down during 2024

Emissions from Irish power generation and industrial companies decreased by 7.4% or almost 1 million tonnes during 2024.

In its preliminary analysis of greenhouse gas emissions in 2024 from the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said industrial emissions decreased by 6.9 per cent, with the cement industry responsible for the most significant reductions due to lower production levels.

Meanwhile, shipping companies reported over a half a million tonnes of CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions from aviation increased by just under 17 per cent compared to 2023, which reflects continued growth in the sector.

Aviation emissions from flights within the European Economic Area reported to Ireland by 31 March increased by almost 17 per cent compared to 2023, to over 13 million tonnes. T

The decrease in emissions from Ireland’s power generation and industry in 2024 was driven by a combination of factors, including a decrease in the use of coal at ESB Moneypoint in County Clare.

There was also an increase in imports of electricity from the United Kingdom.

Importation of electricity from other countries outside the EU will require a carbon price to be paid from 2027, for imports in 2026 and onwards.

According to Laura Burke, EPA Director General, ““The decrease in emissions from the power generation and industrial emissions sectors covered by the EU Emissions Trading System is an indicator of further progress in Ireland’s move towards cleaner energy and manufacturing processes.”

She continued, “Scaling up investment in energy infrastructure is essential to support the further development of renewable energy sources to support Ireland’s energy transition.”

Further details about Emissions Trading are available on the EU website and on the EPA website.