Gas Networks Ireland’s latest Gas Demand Statement shows that overall gas demand in August 2025 was 9 percent higher than in August 2024, despite it being the fourth warmest August on record1.
The increase in demand for gas was driven in part by increased use in electricity generation, as coal-powered generation has been phased out over the past 12 months.
Month-on-month gas demand fell by 9 percent compared to July 2025, as warmer conditions reduced heating needs and stronger wind generation lessened the requirement for gas in power generation at times.
Electricity generation
Gas generated 45 percent of Ireland’s electricity in August, a year-on-year increase of nine percentage points from 36 percent in August 2024. At times, gas’s contribution peaked at 90 percent2 and never fell below 13 percent2, providing critical stability when renewable output dipped.
Wind supplied 27 percent of electricity, down eight percentage points on last year from 35 percent. While wind generation peaked at 75 percent2, it dropped to less than one percent2 during periods of calm weather. Solar power contributed five percent of electricity in August, slightly down from six percent in July.
Coal also influenced the year-on-year comparison
In August 2024, coal still generated three percent of electricity – peaking at 10 percent 2. By August 2025 however, coal had fully exited Ireland’s energy mix, following the closure of Moneypoint’s coal-fired operations in June. Without coal in the mix, gas is playing a greater role in ensuring security of supply.
Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of Strategy and Regulation Edwina Nyhan, said
“August’s gas demand report again highlights the vital role gas plays in balancing Ireland’s energy system. While warmer weather reduced overall gas demand and renewables played a significant role, gas ensured a secure and reliable supply when wind output fell away. As Ireland transitions its energy mix, gas continues to provide the flexibility needed to support renewable growth and maintain security of supply.”
2 All peak and low measurements recorded over a 15-minute resolution
