Ireland set a new record for solar power generation in March, according to EirGrid, as 39% of electricity came from renewable sources last month.

25 March saw a new peak for grid-scale solar power in Ireland with over 750MW coming from solar at one point, 18MW more than the previous record set in July 2024.

In all, this March saw the third-highest ever amount of solar powered electricity produced in the course of a calendar month.

14 March also saw the highest-ever level of discharge from grid-scale battery power sources at just under 300MW, equivalent to the maximum output from the Turlough Hill hydropower facility.

Wind power met a third of electricity demand in March, while gas was the single biggest source of electricity generation for the month at 39%, and 18% of demand was met by electricity imported via interconnection.

Overall electricity system demand stood at 3,061 GWh for March.

Currently, the electricity grid can accommodate up to 75% of electricity from renewable sources at any one time, but there were times last month when renewable generation provided as little as 5% of demand.

“March was a landmark month for solar power on the electricity grid. While just under 3% of total electricity generation came from solar for the month, during particularly sunny periods this peaked at over 18% which augurs well for further records this summer," said Charlie McGee, system operational manager at EirGrid.

"This is made possible by the connection of greater amounts of grid-scale solar as we work towards achieving a cleaner energy future for Ireland’s power system.

“It was also encouraging to see a new peak set for power discharged from batteries on the grid.

"February’s wind power record followed by a new solar peak in March shows the need for battery storage so we can hold greater amounts of renewable electricity in reserve for use during periods of high demand.”

(Pic: Getty Images)