Ireland has joined the ranks of coal-free European nations by shutting down its Moneypoint coal plant in County Clare. The 915 MW facility, operational since the mid-1980s, marked the end of coal power generation in the country, making Ireland the 15th coal-free country in Europe. The plant was originally built to offset oil crisis impacts but became obsolete as renewable energy expanded.

Ireland's transition to renewables accelerated with wind power generating 37% of the country's electricity in 2024. Solar energy remains smaller but continues breaking generation records. Following closure, Moneypoint will serve as a backup oil burner under EirGrid's emergency instructions until 2029, though it no longer participates in the wholesale electricity market.

Environmental groups urge minimizing oil backup use at Moneypoint while opposing gas power plant development and data center expansion that increases fossil gas dependency. Beyond Fossil Fuels notes Ireland's coal exit sets a precedent for Europe, with Italy and Spain expecting to join as coal-free this summer.