Demand for gas fell across several sectors last month due to spell of warmer weather
It also forecasted that with temperatures expected to rise further over the next few months, there will probably be an increase in renewable electricity generation, displacing some gas-based power generation.
Despite overall demand falling by 12pc, gas produced close to half of Ireland's electricity last month, according to GNI.
A recent gas demand statement from GNI shows that, while demand fell, gas continued to play a central role in electricity generation.
Gas accounted for 42pc of Ireland's power, up from 39pc in the previous month. Wind energy generated 28pc of electricity in the same period.
GNI director of strategy and regulation Edwina Nyhan said gas offered stability to the national grid.
'While warmer weather naturally led to a seasonal drop in overall gas demand in April, gas continued to provide the consistent back-up needed to keep Ireland's electricity system running reliably,' she said.
'With wind generation fluctuating widely throughout the month, gas stepped in as needed to maintain stability and security of supply.
'Our summer outlook forecasts similar trends, with gas continuing to play a leading role in electricity generation and in decarbonising the transport sector. Gas remains central to our energy system – today and into the future.'
GNI published its summer outlook – forecasting a decrease in total gas demand compared with last summer. It said it indicated an increase in renewable generation for the summer ahead, displacing some gas-fired power generation.
The outlook also said Ireland will remain heavily dependent on the UK for gas imports. It also predicts gas demand in transport will grow by 11pc in line with decarbonisation efforts around commercial transport.
Last month the demand for gas in transport increased by 76pc year-on-year. GNI said that reflected a growing shift towards lower emission fuel sources such as compressed natural gas (CNG) and renewable BioCNG.
The organisation also noted that between April 7 and April 10, gas produced 66pc of Ireland's electricity, peaking at 74pc.
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