Northern Ireland generated a record 53% of its electricity from renewable sources in the year to June 2026, surpassing the previous high set in 2022, according to figures highlighted by Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald. It marks the first time renewable output has consistently outstripped non-renewable generation since January, and comes after several years in which renewable generation had been falling, partly due to weather conditions and the practice of switching off turbines when grid demand is insufficient. The minister said the shift would help move Northern Ireland away from price volatility caused by global fossil fuel costs and towards more stable, fairer electricity prices.

Wind power accounted for almost three-quarters (74%) of renewable electricity, with bioenergy contributing 18%, solar 6%, and landfill gas and hydro/tidal generation 1% each. Even accounting for imported electricity, renewables' share matched the previous 50% record from 2022/23. Northern Ireland has set a target of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.