In this section, you will learn: zzabout Ireland’s production of hydroelectric power zzabout Ireland’s production of wind energy.
Hydropower Reservoir Megawatt
In Ireland, we have excellent resources for the production of renewable energy. The government, as well as private individuals and organisations, is working towards producing more energy from sustainable renewable sources.
Look at www.seai.ie to find out more about Ireland’s commitment to cleaner energy. ACT VITY
Ireland and hydroelectric power
Ireland has a long history of using hydroelectric power. The country’s first and largest HEP station, Ardnacrusha HEP station in Co. Clare, was built in 1927.
About 2.5 per cent of Ireland’s electricity is generated from hydroelectricity. HEP is ideal for this country due to our climate and the levels of rainfall we receive annually.
There has recently been an increase in small-scale hydropower used by local businesses and industries to generate renewable and sustainable energy.
: Figure 5.24 Ardnacrusha HEP station CASE STUDY Hydroelectric power in Ireland: Inniscarra Dam
Inniscarra Dam was constructed in the 1950s as part of the Lee Hydroelectric Scheme. The dam is located west of Ballincollig in Co. Cork. The dam stands at a height of 44 metres.
The Inniscarra reservoir (also known as Inniscarra lake) was created in 1956. The reservoir was made by flooding parts of the Lee valley west of Cork City.
The reservoir occupies an area of 530 hectares or 5 km2 . There
are approximately 40 km of bank area that can be fished. In recent years there has been a lot of investment in the development of angling facilities here.
The HEP station generates 27 megawatts of electricity for the area. A megawatt (MW) is the unit we use to measure electricity.
