Ireland Climbs 14 Places in Global Climate Performance Ranking Amid Renewed Focus on Renewables
Ireland’s climate performance has seen a significant improvement over the past year, according to the latest report released at the COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan. The report, which evaluates the climate efforts of 63 countries responsible for 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions, places Ireland 29th—up 14 spots from last year. This marks the country’s best ranking to date, officially classifying Ireland as a “medium performer” in global climate action.
Several factors contributed to Ireland’s rise in the rankings, including a marked increase in renewable energy capacity, particularly solar power, along with progress in energy efficiency, climate policies, and legislation. In the past year, Ireland’s solar energy capacity doubled, driven by a surge in both utility-scale projects and residential rooftop installations. Minister for the Environment, Eamon Ryan, hailed this achievement, describing it as a “rooftop revolution,” and noted that Ireland is “leaving our climate laggard tag behind.”
However, despite these advances, the report highlights significant concerns about Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions. While Ireland has introduced legally binding five-year carbon budgets and sectoral emissions ceilings, implementation of climate policies remains problematic. Recent projections from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggest that Ireland is unlikely to meet its second carbon budget for 2026-2030, with limited progress on emission reductions.
Ryan acknowledged these challenges, noting the political difficulties surrounding the implementation of more stringent climate measures. He pointed to resistance from coalition partners Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, accusing them of obstructing efforts to reduce traffic congestion and curb transport emissions. Ryan warned that such political divisions could undermine Ireland’s climate goals.
The report also stressed Ireland’s ongoing reliance on fossil fuels and called for stronger action to reduce this dependence. It urged the reinstatement of a ban on LNG terminals, a moratorium on new data centers, and a revision of government mandates to align with climate commitments. At the same time, it recognized Ireland’s strong performance in climate finance, particularly in relation to the Loss and Damage Fund, which supports countries vulnerable to climate impacts.
While the report reflects progress, it also underscores the need for Ireland to accelerate its transition to renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels to meet its climate goals. Ryan reiterated the need for further action, stating that Ireland must “go further and faster” to achieve lasting climate solutions.
Meanwhile, the COP29 summit has seen other contentious discussions around fossil fuels. OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais defended oil and gas, calling them a “gift from God” and suggesting that climate targets could be met without abandoning fossil fuels entirely, sparking debate on the future of energy transitions.
