Gas remained the largest source of Ireland’s electricity in the first half of this year

• Gas generated 38% of Ireland’s electricity during first six months of the year
• Gas provided up to 93% of electricity generation at times
• Overall gas demand increased 2% year-on-year in first half of 2026

Gas remained Ireland’s leading source of electricity generation during the first half of the year, generating 38% of the country’s electricity, according to Gas Networks Ireland’s latest Gas Demand Statement.

Gas provided up to 93%¹ of Ireland’s electricity generation at times during the first half of 2026 and never fell below 12%¹, highlighting its continued role in supporting Ireland’s energy system as the contribution from variable renewable energy generation fluctuates.

Wind energy generated 35% of Ireland’s electricity during the first half of the year, compared with 33% during the same period in 2025. Wind’s contribution peaked at 77%¹ but fell away completely at times during the six-month period¹.

Overall gas demand during the first half of the year was 2% higher than the same period last year and increased by 3% compared with the second half of 2025.

Demand for gas in the power generation sector increased by 13% year-on-year in June, reflecting the continued importance of gas-fired generation in meeting Ireland’s electricity needs. Overall gas demand was up 7% in June compared with the same month last year. 

Commenting on the data, Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of Strategy and Regulation, Edwina Nyhan said: 

“Gas continued to play a central role in Ireland’s energy system during the first half of this year. Gas-fired generation provides the flexibility and responsiveness needed to support the electricity system during period of low renewable energy output.

“As Ireland continues to increase the level of renewable electricity on the system, a flexible and resilient gas network will remain essential to energy security. Gas Networks Ireland is progressing its pathway to a net zero carbon network, working to replace natural gas with renewable gases and supporting Ireland’s transition to a cleaner energy future.”

^{1 All peak and low electricity generation measurements recorded over a 15-minute resolution.}