Wind energy continues to rise in Ireland as demand for gas decreases

The 2023 Gas Networks Ireland annual demand statement shows that overall demand for gas in Ireland decreased by 7% year-on-year when compared to 2022, due to an increase in energy powered by wind. 

Gas generated 47% of total electricity in 2023 versus 48% in 2022. While wind’s overall contribution to electricity generation increased from 34% in 2022 to 39% in 2023. 

Gas was the largest energy source of electricity generation in Ireland for the first 10 months of 2023, and wind energy was the key source in December. Both wind and gas made an equal contribution of 41% in November.

Gas generated 47% of the total electricity used in Ireland in 2023, with wind energy contributing 39% and coal providing 4%. June saw the highest reliance on gas during the year, as it provided 58% of electricity supplies during the month. Wind energy made its largest contribution in December, generating 53% of all electricity in the State. 

Gas peaked at 89% of electricity generation during April, but never fell lower than December’s 9.5%. Wind peaked at 80% in December, but at times fell to lower than 1% every month.