[1] In 2018 natural gas produced 51.8%, while wind turbines generated 28.1%, coal 7%, and peat 6.8% of Ireland's average electricity demand.

Nuclear power in Ireland was discussed in the 1960s and 1970s but ultimately never phased in, with legislation now in place explicitly forbidding its introduction.

In the 2019 UK General Election 2019, the Democratic Unionist Party included in their manifesto a proposal to link Iceland to Northern Ireland (a variant on Icelink).

EirGrid ensures the safe, secure and economic operation of the high voltage electricity grid.

EirGrid is owned by the Irish State and is established as a result of a government decision to create an independent organisation to carry out the transmission system operator function, in order to assist the liberalisation of Ireland's electricity industry and the development of a competitive market.

The functions and duties of the commission have been altered and expanded significantly by legislation transposing EU directives into Irish law.

Entry points include thermal and hydro-electric power stations, major wind farms, and inter-connectors from other countries and regions.

Northern Ireland Electricity (a subsidiary of ESB Group) owns the transmission and distribution networks.

[34] The authority is an independent public body established to oversee and regulate the electricity, gas, water and sewerage industries in Northern Ireland.

The Authority is a non-ministerial government department responsible for promoting the short and long term interests of consumers.

In April 2007 the regulatory system for utilities was further reformed to encompass the water supply and sewage industries.

The key functional areas in the organisation are Network Operations, Wholesale, Retail and Consumer Protection, and Corporate Affairs.