Overall gas demand in March rose by 13% compared to February, and by 4% compared to the same month last year, new figures from Gas Networks Ireland show today.
Gas Network Ireland noted that gas demand in the transport sector increased by 90% year on year, reflecting a growing shift toward compressed natural gas (CNG) and renewable BioCNG in heavy transport fleets.
Gas produced 39% of the country’s electricity in March, up from 31% on February and 34% on March 2024. Its contribution ranged from 14% to 67% during the month, depending on demand and renewable energy availability.
Meanwhile, wind generation accounted for 33% of electricity in March, down from 48% in February and 45% in March 2024. Wind output ranged widely, from a high of 75% to periods of zero generation.
Gas Networks Ireland said that from March 13-17, gas consistently provided the majority of electricity generation – totalling 52% compared to wind’s 16%. During this period, gas peaked at 67% and never dropped below 36%, while wind fluctuated between 2% and 42%.
March was described by Met Éireann as mild, dry and sunny contrasting with the cold, stormy weather experienced in January and the milder but windier conditions in February.
“These alternating weather patterns directly impacted energy use and sources of electricity generation, with gas stepping in to support when wind output fell,” Gas Networks Ireland said.
Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of Strategy and Regulation Edwina Nyhan said the first quarter of 2025 highlighted how Ireland’s energy system must operate in an agile and responsive way.
“While wind remains Ireland’s largest renewable electricity source, its variability – particularly during periods of low wind output – means that a reliable and flexible source like gas is essential to maintaining system stability,” Ms Nyhan said.
“The gas network continues to provide that stability and support, ensuring electricity supply remains secure no matter the weather. With a clear pathway to incorporating renewable gases like biomethane and hydrogen, our network will continue to play a critical role in delivering a cleaner and more secure energy future,” she added.
Article Source – Gas use increases in March as weather shifts and wind energy output falls – RTE