The NERI seminar titled 'Ireland's electricity prices over time' was presented by Paul Goldrick-Kelly, NERI economist. It took place on Wednesday 25 March 2026 at 15.30 as an online Zoom event.
Lecture Format:
Paul Goldrick-Kelly, NERI economist made his presentation. Subsequently, there was a Q&A section where the chairperson, Ciarán Nugent, NERI economist presented questions from attendees to Paul.
Please find the video and presentation.
Abstract:
Irish electricity prices have become the focus of a great deal of analysis and comment in light of recent increases in cost and their contribution to a general cost of living crisis. This study examines this trend and investigates the extent to which Irish electricity prices have increased over time relative to other comparable EU states over a longer time span. The analysis also extends to price levels per unit of electricity relative to other jurisdictions over time. These unit prices are decomposed to identify the components which drive our relative position as well as changes over time.
These price components point to certain significant factors influencing cost in the Irish context, including the interaction between market design and available generation assets. The report concludes with a brief analysis of other potential price drivers and possible policy remedies and avenues for further research.
The presentation links to a recently published NERI Report Series document by the presenter - here.
Speakers detail:
Paul Goldrick-Kelly is an economist at the Nevin Economic Research Institute based in our Dublin office. A graduate of University College Dublin with a HDIP and MA in Economic Science, Paul's work has examined issues related to healthcare, housing, tax and revenue sufficiency as well as productivity performance in the Republic of Ireland.
Paul's current research interests relate to ecological sustainability and political economy, incorporating issues related to Just Transition. Paul is currently engaged in a collaborative doctoral research project with NUI Maynooth concerning carbon lock-in and its manifestation and propagation through institutions. This work is funded in partnership with the Irish Research Council.