Key facts
- EU gas storage levels were at their lowest in four years at 28% full on April 1.
- The bloc needs a 13% increase in LNG imports compared to 2025 levels to reach its 90% storage target by November.
- Competition from Asia and Middle East conflict-driven price hikes are complicating the EU's gas storage refill efforts.
- Despite challenges, Europe's gas system is considered resilient due to expanded LNG regasification capacity.
- Potential new methane emissions rules for energy producers could impact supply if they increase exporters' costs.
The European Union faces a challenging task in replenishing its gas storage facilities before winter, with current levels significantly below historical averages and targets. According to the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER), the bloc's gas storage was only 28% full at the start of the summer injection season, the lowest in four years. This raises concerns about meeting the legal minimum target of 90% storage by November 1.
ACER's assessment indicates that achieving this target will necessitate a substantial increase in liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, estimated at around 13% higher than 2025 levels. Market conditions are further complicated by high gas prices, partly driven by the conflict in the Middle East, which reduce the financial incentive for traders to inject gas into storage. Asian buyers have increased their LNG imports from the Atlantic basin, impacting availability for the EU.
Despite these challenges, ACER maintains that Europe's gas system remains resilient, supported by expanded LNG regasification capacity. However, current storage injections are lagging behind both the 10-year seasonal average and last year's pace. Energy regulators are urging member states to closely monitor progress and take necessary actions to ensure energy security.
Adding to the complexity are looming methane emissions rules for energy producers. Critics argue that a potential penalty waiver could jeopardize energy supply, while supporters highlight climate benefits. Several EU countries and major LNG exporters have expressed concerns or threatened supply reductions if the rules increase costs, with a compliance deadline set for January 1, 2027.