Ireland's overall gas demand rose 5 per cent in July from June as episodes of low wind during an exceptionally hot, sunny month drove a 10 per cent month-on-month increase in gas use for electricity generation.

Gas Networks Ireland said July was the second hottest July on record and among the sunniest, with calmer conditions reducing wind output and increasing reliance on gas-fired power.

While gas demand from most other industry sectors declined during the month, gas accounted for 43 per cent of electricity generation in July, up from 40 per cent in June. Gas’s share peaked at 70 per cent and did not fall below 21 per cent during the month.

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Wind supplied 22 per cent of electricity, down from 30 per cent in June, while solar contributed 9 per cent.

Edwina Nyhan, Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of Regulation and Strategy, said: "July's 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.

"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. Gas-fired peaking plants can ramp up quickly when wind and solar generation dip and reduce their output again as renewable generation increases."