Ireland’s gas infrastructure is entering a new phase as Gas Networks Ireland releases a 10-year strategy designed to support the country’s low-carbon ambitions while responding to shifting market dynamics.

The refreshed plan, shaped over six months, sets out how the network will evolve to manage sustainability requirements, security needs and affordability concerns through to 2035.

Tim Gugov, head of strategy and planning, said, “What we have seen over the past two or three years is a recalibration of the energy trilemma.” He adds, “Continuing to ensure Ireland has a resilient gas network is critical to shaping the country’s energy future.”

The network supplies 30 per cent of Ireland’s primary energy needs, with gas-fired generation covering up to 90 per cent of electricity demand during periods of low renewable output. To accommodate renewable gases, Gas Networks Ireland will expand network entry points and integrate biomethane.

“Ireland’s potential to produce biomethane is the highest in Europe on a per-capita basis,” Gugov noted. Three anaerobic digestion plants will connect next year, with a centralised facility in Mitchelstown injecting up to 700GWh of renewable gas annually, cutting around 130,000 tonnes of CO₂.

Green hydrogen trials are also underway. Tests blending 20 per cent hydrogen with 80 per cent natural gas demonstrate the network’s decarbonisation potential without requiring equipment changes.

Security remains a priority. “We have an aggressive internal programme to protect our sites and assets both from cyber and physical threats,” Gugov said. Affordability is equally central: “We have to play our part in minimising costs to our customers and ensuring that energy bills remain affordable,” supported by over €200 million in capital investments this year.

Explore the full article for deeper detail on Ireland’s long-term gas and green energy trajectory.