New figures from Gas Networks Ireland show that overall gas demand in Ireland increased by 5% in July on the previous month.
July was the second hottest July since records began and one of the sunniest on record, but the warm and sunny weather was accompanied by periods of low wind conditions, which meant a lower supply of wind energy.
Against this backdrop, demand for gas for the electricity generation sector increased by 10% on a monthly basis, while gas demand from almost all other industry sectors fell during the month.
Today’s figures show that gas accounted for 43% of the country’s electricity generation in July, up from 40% in June.
They also reveal that gas generation peaked at 70% during the month and never fell below 21%.
Meanwhile, wind accounted for 22% of electricity generation, down from 30% in June. Solar accounted for another 9%.
Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of Regulation and Strategy, Edwina Nyhan, said the July figures demonstrate the important role gas continues to play in Ireland’s energy system.
“While it was an exceptionally warm, dry and sunny month, there were periods of lower wind generation, and gas remained a dependable source of electricity generation when it was needed,” she said.
“As Ireland continues to diversify its electricity generation and increase the contribution from weather-dependent renewable sources, flexible gas generation will play an increasingly important role in maintaining a secure and reliable electricity supply,” she added.
