A Century of Siemens' Sustainability Impact in Ireland

Siemens has marked 100 years of operations in Ireland, a journey characterised by pioneering contributions to both the nation's physical and digital landscapes.

Its impact in Ireland began in 1925 with the company’s innovative solutions significantly moulding sectors such as manufacturing, utilities, healthcare, infrastructure and rail.

Impact in Ireland

Central to Siemens' early achievements in Ireland was the Shannon Hydroelectric Scheme.

Initiated in partnership with Enterprise Service Bus (ESB), this project was a pivotal development located at Ardnacrusha in County Clare.

Started in 1925 and completed by 1929, the scheme featured an 86MW power station propelled by the hydraulic potential of the River Shannon.

This was not just a power generation facility; it was the keystone for Ireland's first national electricity network, continuing today to contribute renewable energy at Ardnacrusha.

Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive, says: "The Shannon Scheme had a profound impact on Ireland at the time, providing the electricity essential for social and economic development.

“Since then, ESB has worked together with Siemens on many important, innovative and groundbreaking projects supporting resilience, energy security and low carbon electricity. Many congratulations to Siemens on their centenary in Ireland."

The company also advanced Ireland's rail transport by installing the overhead line system for the Dublin Area Rapid Transit during the 1980s, deploying nationwide rail signalling infrastructure in the early 1990s and automating more than 120 level crossings with CCTV technology.

Showing its versatility, Siemens has also supported healthcare infrastructure, initiating the country's first Computed Tomography (CT) scanner in 1978 and the first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine installation in 1987.

While Siemens has been instrumental in past and present, the vision for the future focuses on ambitious environmental targets including achieving 80% renewable electricity by 2030 and slicing carbon emissions by 51% by the same year, with a long-term goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Carl Ennis, CEO of Siemens UK & Ireland, says: "Ireland has always been a cornerstone of Siemens' success. The pioneering projects we have undertaken here have not only shaped the country's infrastructure but have also set the stage for our future endeavours. 

"As we look ahead, Ireland will continue to play a crucial role in our mission to drive innovation and sustainable growth globally."

Ireland's electrification efforts

In 2023, 40.7% of Ireland's electricity came from renewable sources, with wind energy leading the way at 33.7%.

Solar energy has made notable contributions as well, providing 1.9% of Ireland’s electricity supply – enough to meet the nation's power needs for an entire week.

Between 2005 and 2020, Ireland reduced electricity emissions by 45%, highlighting major progress in decarbonising its energy sector.

This aligns with the country's Climate Action Plan 2023, which outlines ambitious goals including generating up to 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and cutting carbon emissions by 51% by the decade's end.

Ireland ultimately aims for net zero emissions by 2050.

Globally, Ireland boasts the highest contribution of wind generation to any power system and continues to expand its capabilities through investments in energy storage solutions.

Several battery storage projects are currently in development, further strengthening its renewable energy infrastructure.

Ireland’s advancements build on a history of electrification progress that dates back to its Rural Electrification Scheme, launched in 1946.

By 1975, this initiative had connected 99% of Irish homes to the national grid, establishing a foundation for today’s renewable energy strides.

Despite these achievements, challenges remain. Ireland is not currently on track to meet its 2030 renewable energy targets, with projections indicating delays until 2032.

Joe Walsh, General Manager of Siemens in Ireland, says: "As we look back on Siemens' 100 years in Ireland, we are celebrating a century of innovation, resilience and partnerships. Since our incorporation in 1925, Siemens has evolved significantly, adapting to the ever-changing global markets through mergers, acquisitions and strategic transformations.

“Our heritage is built on a foundation of courage and trust. These values have driven bold decisions and fostered strong, enduring business relationships across the Island of Ireland."

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