According to an SEI report released today carbon dioxide emissions from the energy sector decreased by 2% in 2003.
The green energy promotion group said that while economic growth increased by 4% in 2003, energy consumption remained almost at 2002 levels, and this showed energy use was being 'decoupled' from economic activity.
David Taylor, SEI chief executive, said efficiency improvements, combined with the increase in the share of natural gas in the fuel mix for electricity generation, were two of the most important contributing factors.
According to SEI, the transport sector now shares top position with the residential sector in terms of energy-related CO2 emissions, with each having a 25% share in 2003.
Carbon dioxide emissions are important as they are blamed for global warming. Under the Kyoto Protocol, Ireland was supposed to only increase its emissions to 13% above 1990 levels. Currently its at 29% and faces heavy fines.
