European winter energy storage

Why is gas storage important in Europe?

Gas storage is key for security of supply in Europe as it can cover up to one-third of the EU’s gas demand in winter. The figures published today show that gas storage levels have reached 1024 TWh or 90.12% of storage capacity (equivalent to just over 93 billion cubic metres (bcm) of natural gas). EU Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson said:

When will gas storage be 80% of capacity in the EU?

As of June 2022, there is new legislation that requires EU underground gas storage to be filled to 80% of capacity by 1 November 2022 – and to 90% in the years after - to ensure supply for the coming winter. See latest figures. Gas storage in the EU is now at more than 90%.

What is the EU gas storage target for 2022?

Aimed at optimising EU preparation for the coming winter, the gas storage regulation of June 2022 set a binding EU target of 90% filling storage facilities by 1 November each year, with interim targets for EU countries. Gas storage is key for security of supply in Europe as it can cover up to one-third of the EU’s gas demand in winter.

How long will gas storage last in Europe?

Full gas storage could sustain European countries for, at best, about three months, according to Aurora Energy Research. In Germany, home to nearly a quarter of the EU's storage, stored gas could meet 80 to 90 days of average demand.

Will a cold winter affect EU gas supply?

However, the IEA said that in a scenario where there is a combination of a cold winter, a complete halt of Russian pipeline gas and low liquefied natural gas availability, EU storage could enter next April with only 20 per cent gas, a level that would threaten supply disruptions.

Will Europe have a low gas storage capacity in 2023-24?

A recent analysis by Paula Di Mattia, European gas market analyst at commodities consultancy ICIS, also showed that in five out of seven scenarios, Europe could head into the winter of 2023-24 with gas storage sites at only 65 per cent of capacity, the lowest level at that point since at least 2016, when records began.