Demand for gas fell by 10% in April compared to the same month last year, according to the latest figures from Gas Networks Ireland.
Gas demand was also down 14% in April compared to March as several sectors required less energy during the month.
Gas accounted for 47% of electricity generation in Ireland in the month, up 4% on March but down 10% on the same time last year.
At times during April, gas powered almost 90% of the county’s electricity – peaking at 89% and never dropping below 14%.
Wind generation fell slightly month on month and accounted for 37% of the country’s electricity production in the month.
Gas Networks Ireland said that wind peaked at 78% but given the variable nature of weather dependent renewable energy sources, there were also times when the wind supply dropped almost completely and contributed less than 1% of electricity generation.
Meanwhile, coal generated 4% of electricity in April, peaking at 10%, with a low of 2%.
Today’s figures show that demand for CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) is up 42%, although from a modest base, while demand from the air travel sector is up 14% compared to last year.
Gas demand from the sectors of construction, education, hospitals and office complexes are down 11%, 27%, 21% and 26% respectively on a monthly basis.
Brian Mullins, Gas Network Ireland Acting Director of Strategy & Regulation, said the increased demand for CNG and recent successful auction for offshore wind developments in Ireland shows that the country is making progress in the decarbonisation of energy.
“It was another very strong month for wind, as the main source of power for 37% of Ireland’s energy demands, Mr Mullins said.
“This is a welcome development, as was the successful first Irish offshore wind auction on May 11 last. Gas will remain a backbone of Ireland’s energy mix – particularly given the intermittent nature of wind – but increasingly we believe that will include more renewable energy like biomethane,” he added.
Article Source – Gas generated 47% of electricity in April – RTE.ie