Prices of renewable energy at state auction ‘won’t be pretty’, say experts

Senior figures in the energy sector have warned of a 15 per cent increase in the cost of renewables at the state’s upcoming Renewable Electricity Support Scheme auction

There is considerable frustration in the renewables sector that average prices are not coming down as the industry matures and projects reach economies of scale. Picture: Getty

The average price of renewable energy is set to rise considerably this year, as soaring project costs, long lead times for grid connections and delays in the planning system will drive up bid prices from developers in the state’s latest Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) auction, the Business Post has learned.

Ireland’s second RESS auction is due to open for submissions in the first week of May, and senior figures in the energy sector are ...