Portugal’s electricity consumption reached 14.6 TWh in the first quarter of 2026, marking the highest figure ever recorded for a first quarter and surpassing the previous record of 14.1 TWh set in 2025 by 3.8% (or 3.9% when adjusted for temperature and working days), according to data from REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais.

Despite this strong start to the year, March saw a slowdown in consumption. Electricity demand fell 0.6% year-on-year, although after adjusting for temperature and working days, consumption was still 1.4% higher than in March 2025.

Renewables supply the bulk of electricity

Renewable sources accounted for 80% of total electricity consumption in Q1 2026. Hydroelectric power contributed 38%, wind power 32%, solar 6%, and biomass 4%. Productivity indices were strong for hydro and wind, at 1.52 and 1.15 respectively (historical average 1), while solar recorded 0.65.

In March alone, renewables supplied 76% of electricity demand, non-renewables 15%, and imports from other countries 9%. Hydroelectric productivity remained favorable at 1.27, while wind and solar were slightly below average, at 0.89 and 0.71 respectively.

Gas consumption rises amid electricity generation growth

Natural gas contributed up to 16% of national consumption in Q1, largely influenced by system constraints following Storm Kristin. Gas demand continued to rise, with March showing a 10.3% year-on-year increase, driven by a 79% increase in the electricity generation segment, despite a 6.8% decline in conventional usage.

For the quarter as a whole, cumulative gas consumption rose 13.8% year-on-year, with 54% growth in electricity generation and a marginal 0.2% increase in conventional demand. The Sines LNG terminal supplied the majority of gas, accounting for 82% of national consumption, sourced from Nigeria (37%), the United States (36%) and Russia (10%). The remaining 18% came via the interconnector with Spain.

Overall, imports from Spain contributed just 3% of electricity supply in Q1, highlighting the increasing self-sufficiency provided by domestic renewable generation. The figures underscore Portugal’s growing reliance on clean energy and the critical role of hydro and wind in stabilizing the national system, according to REN.