Northern Ireland electricity demand predicted to double in the next 25 years

SONI, the Transmission System Operator for Northern Ireland, has published its latest Tomorrow’s Energy Scenarios (TES) report, a key publication that maps out the future of the electricity grid in Northern Ireland in alignment with government set climate goals.

Published in partnership with EirGrid, Tomorrow’s Energy Scenarios explores a number of likely scenarios to understand how much electricity we might need and how it can be provided, beyond 2030, up to 2050.

The report reflects the complexity of the challenge ahead and how society’s needs for energy security and affordability can be met, while also outlining what positive action can be taken to decarbonise the island’s power supply.

The scenarios highlight the critical role of innovative technologies and enhanced grid capabilities in supporting Northern Ireland’s path to net zero. SONI is working to meet the challenges that lie ahead, as the analysis shows that the annual total electricity demand is forecast to more than double by 2050, to between 21TWh – 26TWh.

The extensive report outlines four specific approaches to decarbonizing the power system, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, interconnections, and the integration of renewable energy sources. TES notes that a balanced portfolio of generation technologies will be required, with renewables supported by energy storage, firm dispatchable capacity and interconnection.

SONI Chief Executive, Alan Campbell commented, “SONI is at the forefront of transforming Northern Ireland’s energy system to ensure it is both sustainable and capable of meeting future demands. It’s essential that we plan and make decisions now that will prepare for this transformation. Collaboration, technological advancement, and proactive scenario planning are crucial for Northern Ireland to realise the potential of an energy secure future.”

Campbell added: “As a trusted adviser to government, our ambition, through research like Tomorrow’s Energy Scenarios, is to provide the analysis that can support decision-makers on the formation and implementation of energy policy that can deliver a cleaner, more secure energy future for homes, farms and businesses across Northern Ireland.”

You can read the Tomorrow’s Energy Scenarios Summary Report here.