Gas-fired electricity generation across the Southeast European markets covered fell 13.60% in the week to 20 September, compared with a 6.37% decline in regional power demand. The change came alongside lower overall thermal output, with total thermal generation down 6.81%. Gas-fired generation declined more sharply than demand.
Gas-fired output fell to 3,444.30 GWh from 3,986.41 GWh a week earlier. Coal and lignite generation increased by 1.30%, reaching 3,380.18 GWh. Total thermal generation dropped to 6,824.48 GWh.
Country-level changes in gas-fired dispatch
The weekly pattern varied by country within the region. Italy reduced gas-fired output by 10.86%, while Greece cut it by 12.46%. Türkiye recorded a larger decline of 26.16%.
Bulgaria’s total thermal generation was broadly stable during the week. Higher gas output partly offset lower coal and lignite production in the country’s thermal mix.
Dispatch shifts and factors affecting plant running
The weekly totals reflect changes in dispatch but do not show that every gas-fired unit was replaced directly by coal. Lower demand, renewable output, hydro availability and imports can all influence which plants run.
Plant efficiency and fuel procurement costs also differ across markets, contributing to how generation is scheduled week to week.
Implications for near-term gas demand and power pricing
The immediate market effect was a lower call on gas-fired generation across the region. Whether the pattern persists will affect both electricity prices and gas demand as consumption moves toward winter levels.
By Virtu.Energy
