The Natural Gas Authority, part of Israel’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, released its 2024 gas market report today (Wednesday), revealing a new production record: 27.1 billion cubic meters (BCM) of natural gas were extracted in Israel. Of that total, approximately 13.2 BCM were exported to Egypt and Jordan – accounting for nearly 49% of annual output. For comparison, exports in 2020 amounted to just 4.3 BCM.
Israeli Gas Exports Break Records
The trend is clear: Egypt and Jordan are increasingly reliant on Israeli energy – not only for domestic consumption but also as an economic engine. Egypt, in particular, re-exports Israeli gas as liquefied natural gas (LNG), bolstering its international trade.
Alongside exports, the domestic market consumed 13.9 BCM – a 5.6% rise in demand compared to the previous year. Most of the increase came from the electricity sector, which used 10.9 BCM, with private power producers accounting for the bulk of that usage.
Domestic industry also saw a growth of about 6%, supported by new connections to the gas distribution network. This growth occurred despite global gas prices remaining unstable – with Israel maintaining price stability through long-term contracts.
Gas Infrastructure as a Diplomatic Asset
The sharp rise in gas exports strengthens not only Israel’s economy but also its strategic regional position. As Arab countries depend on Israeli gas to power their plants and support their own exports, economic ties evolve into a moderating force in the diplomatic arena. In an era marked by instability, this kind of energy dependence may prove to be one of Israel’s most valuable strategic assets.
