BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 16. In Q1 2024, 15.75 billion cubic meters were injected into the national transport network of Italy, marking a decline of 0.95 billion cubic meters or 5.7% compared to the same period in 2023, Trend reports via Italian Snam company.
This decrease was primarily attributed to diminishing demand and reduced exports.
Gas demand for the quarter amounted to 20.00 billion cubic meters, representing a reduction of 0.53 billion cubic meters or 2.6% compared to Q1 2023. Factors contributing to this decline include a decrease in demand from the thermoelectric sector by 0.32 billion cubic meters or 4.8%, driven by increased electricity imports, particularly from French nuclear power, and higher hydroelectric production. Additionally, the residential and tertiary sector saw a decrease of 0.18 billion cubic meters or 1.7%, influenced by milder average temperatures and the gradual implementation of energy efficiency measures. However, these effects were somewhat mitigated by increased natural gas usage in thermoelectric generation compared to other fossil fuels. Industrial sector consumption remained relatively stable, with a marginal increase of 0.05 billion cubic meters or 1.8%.
Excluding climate impacts, gas demand reached 21.33 billion cubic meters, up by 0.18 billion cubic meters or 0.9% compared to Q1 2023. Measures implemented in Q1 2023 to mitigate demand for natural gas amidst reduced imports from Russia were balanced by the progressive adoption of energy efficiency initiatives and the modernization of higher efficiency heating systems.
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