Record Natural Gas Demand Meets Growing Solar Competition

U.S. natural gas consumption reached a record high of 92.0 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) in 2025, up 2% from the previous year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The increase in natural gas use was largely driven by electricity generation, which accounted for 41% of total consumption in 2024 and 40% in 2025. In contrast, residential and commercial demand remained relatively flat, with a 2% decline in 2024.

The rapid growth of solar power has also played a significant role in reducing natural gas demand during periods of high power generation. Solar generation increased by an estimated 19.4 BkWh from the same period in 2025, while wind generation rose by 9.3 BkWh.

Despite the growing competition from renewable energy sources, natural gas remains the largest source of electricity generation in the U.S., accounting for 40% of total generation in 2025. However, EIA projects that this share will decline to 39% in 2027 as total electricity generation grows faster than gas-fired generation.