Gas Networks Ireland has released its 2025 annual gas demand statement, revealing that gas continues to underpin the country's energy security.

While overall demand saw a modest decline of 1.5% compared to 2024, gas remained the primary fuel for electricity generation, accounting for 40% of the total mix.

The data underscores the vital role of gas in maintaining grid stability during periods of low renewable output. In July, gas-fired generation peaked at 92%, and it did not drop below 11% at any point during the year. In contrast, wind energy provided 33% of Ireland's electricity—unchanged from the previous year—while solar generation grew slightly to 3% of the total share.

Transport emerged as a notable area of growth, with demand rising by 10% in 2025. This increase is attributed to the accelerating transition within heavy transport fleets toward compressed natural gas (CNG) and renewable BioCNG.

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Edwina Nyhan, Director of Strategy and Regulation at Gas Networks Ireland, said: "The 2025 gas demand figures highlight the continued importance of gas in Ireland's energy system. While overall demand was slightly lower year-on-year, gas remained a critical source of flexibility and security throughout the year, supporting electricity generation during periods of variable renewable output and meeting seasonal heating demand across homes and businesses. As Ireland's energy system continues to evolve, gas will remain essential to maintaining system stability and resilience."

Seasonal weather patterns significantly influenced monthly demand. January 2025 saw a 17% month-on-month increase in gas use, driven by record-breaking wind gusts from Storm Éowyn and low temperatures. This culminated in the Republic of Ireland's highest-ever gas demand day on 8 January.

Further spikes were noted in March (up 13%) and September, when residential demand nearly tripled due to cooler, wetter conditions. The arrival of Storm Amy in October further boosted demand by 19% as heating use rose across the domestic and commercial sectors. Conversely, milder weather and high wind output led to sharp decreases in gas demand during February and the early summer months.

In August, gas demand rose by 9% compared to the previous year, despite it being one of the warmest on record. This was largely due to gas filling the gap as coal was phased out of the national electricity generation mix.