European Union (EU) member states successfully filled approximately 90% of their natural gas storage facilities.
Stefan de Keersmaecker, a representative from the EU Commission, confirmed during a press briefing in Brussels that the natural gas storage sites within the EU have reached a capacity of 89.89%.
Keersmaecker views this accomplishment as a positive step toward ensuring an adequate supply of natural gas for the upcoming winter months.
The EU countries collectively use about 400 billion cubic meters of gas annually and possess a total natural gas storage capacity of 110 billion cubic meters.
Prior to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, approximately 40% of the natural gas consumed by EU nations originated from Russia. However, due to the Russian-Ukrainian war, there has been a significant decrease in Russian natural gas exports to the EU.
In response to this geopolitical situation, the EU member states established legal frameworks mandating the filling of underground natural gas storage facilities ahead of the winter season.
It was projected that by November 1st, 90% of these storage facilities would be filled. Surpassing expectations, the EU has achieved this target approximately 2.5 months ahead of schedule, concluding the final stage of the process.
Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, wrote on X: “The EU’s gas storage has reached 90%, well ahead of schedule. This will help us be safe this winter. Together, we are reducing our reliance on Russian gas and simultaneously working on diversifying our energy sources for the future.”
