A new national strategy highlights opportunities in sustainable energy supply chains

In March 2025, Ireland took a bold step forward in its clean energy transition. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) released a strategic report titled Ireland’s Sustainable Energy Supply Chain Opportunities, offering a detailed roadmap for building a strong industrial base around sustainable energy technologies.

This report goes beyond policy statements or long-term targets. It provides a clear, data-driven vision of where Ireland’s economy can grow, what skills are needed, and where businesses — both local and international — can engage to drive the energy transition.

An ambitious roadmap for 2030

Ireland has set some of the most ambitious climate targets in Europe: generating 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030, deploying nearly one million electric vehicles, and installing 680,000 heat pumps in homes. These objectives are backed by national investment plans in energy infrastructure, building upgrades, and digital grids.

The report focuses on five core technology areas that are expected to see the most growth:

• Renewable electricity generation (onshore wind, solar PV, microgeneration)
• Energy storage and smart grids
• Low-carbon transport
• Energy in buildings
• Energy in industry

A growing investment landscape

According to SEAI's projections, Ireland will require between €17 and €19 billion per year in clean energy investments by 2030. These investments will support infrastructure deployment, industrial capabilities, and service development across the five technology areas.

Looking beyond national borders, the report estimates that the EU and UK markets combined could reach €1.5 trillion annually by 2030 — providing significant export potential for Irish suppliers with the right capabilities.

Where Ireland is best positioned

The report provides detailed supply chain maps for 13 key technologies and estimates Ireland’s current and potential share of both domestic and European markets. The findings show that Irish businesses are especially well positioned in high-value-added segments such as:

• Planning and permitting
• Engineering and environmental services
• Installation and commissioning
• Operations and maintenance (O&M)

For example, in the onshore wind sector, Ireland aims to nearly double its installed capacity by 2030. While turbine manufacturing is typically imported, Irish firms are strong in design, construction, and project services. Similarly, the growth of solar PV and smart grids presents opportunities in installation, integration, and local innovation.

Innovation and openness as strategic pillars

One of the report’s key messages is the central role of research, innovation, and skills development. Ireland plans to invest in new centers of excellence, such as a National Offshore Wind Centre, and continue expanding training and certification programs for clean energy professionals.

This forward-looking approach is designed not just to meet national targets but to position Ireland as a hub for expertise, collaboration, and sustainable industry.

Conclusion: a country to watch in Europe's energy transition

This new strategy illustrates how Ireland is combining climate ambition with industrial pragmatism. By targeting high-impact areas of the clean energy value chain and creating a supportive environment for business and innovation, Ireland is laying the groundwork for long-term resilience and prosperity.

For those interested in applied research, green technology, or industrial collaboration, Ireland presents itself as a promising, agile, and open partner in the years ahead.

🔗 Download the full report:
👉 Ireland’s Sustainable Energy Supply Chain Opportunities (SEAI, March 2025)

🌐 Learn more about SEAI:
👉 https://www.seai.ie