Gas generated up to 80% of the country's electricity during the cold snap last month, new figures show.
The latest data from Gas Networks Ireland shows that overall gas demand jumped by 29% in January when compared to December.
Gas provided 44% of Ireland's electricity in January.
"From the start of the month, during the long cold spell, which saw yellow weather alerts for low temperature and ice being issued, there was little wind across the country - which meant that gas stepped up and provided almost all of Ireland's electricity," said Edwina Nyhan, Gas Networks Ireland's Director of Strategy and Regulation.
"In turn, the gusty conditions during storms Isha and Joceyln, saw wind energy generating 71% and 70% of electricity respectively," she explained.
Today's report shows that demand for gas increased across almost all sectors in January when compared to the previous month, including education which was up 53% and manufacturing which was up 50%.
The demand for gas in transport is also continuing to increase, with a 33% year-on-year rise.
Ms Nyhan said this increased demand for gas in transport builds on the 20% jump seen from 2022 to 2023.
"With more certified biomethane available for the transport sector, this low carbon alternative fuel is turning heavy good vehicle journeys into carbon free miles," she said.
