Overall gas demand increased by 15% in November compared to October, as households, businesses and public buildings turned up the heat during a wet, unsettled month that marked the transition into winter.
But Gas Networks Ireland's latest Gas Demand Statement shows that overall gas demand fell by 8% on an annual basis, mainly driven by the 13% decrease in gas fired generation.
Gas generated 42% of the county's electricity in November, up from 39% in October but nine percentage points lower than November 2024's level of 51%.
The contribution to electricity generation from gas peaked at 79% and did not fall below 16% at any point during the month, today's report shows.
Wind energy generated 35% of electricity, similar to October's 36% and six percentage points higher than November last year at 29%. Solar contributed 1%.
Gas Networks Ireland said that despite strong renewable energy contributions, both wind and solar output fell away almost completely at times, highlighting the continued need for flexible gas generation to ensure a secure and reliable electricity supply.
Edwina Nyhan, Gas Networks Ireland's Director of Strategy and Regulation, said November's data clearly shows the impact that weather patterns have on both energy use and electricity generation.
"With a very mild first half of the month giving way to cooler conditions later, household gas demand rose and we also saw strong increases across education, retail and other key sectors. Gas continued to provide vital support for the electricity system throughout the month particularly when renewable energy generation fell to low levels," she added.
