In a meeting of the Gas Coordination Group, the Commission, EU countries and industry representatives discussed the security of gas supply in the EU as the disruptions in the Middle East enter their sixth week.
The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Gas (ENTSOG) presented the Summer Supply Outlook 2026, covering different scenarios regarding LNG supply availability in the coming months. The results show that the EU infrastructure is prepared to refill its storages to a minimum of 80% by 1 November depending on LNG supply availability. The EU gas system remains flexible and resilient thanks to new regasification capacities commissioned since 2022 and could potentially compensate for lower storage levels at the beginning of the winter season.
The Commission and EU countries confirmed that no immediate risks to security of gas supply are currently observed but winter preparedness must be anticipated and potential measures coordinated. While the market situation has reportedly improved with an easing in prices since the announcement of a 2-week ceasefire, it still remains uncertain and volatile. The damage to energy infrastructure in the region and the blockage of the strait of Hormuz will have longer lasting consequences, as LNG production has not yet resumed in the Gulf.
Even though gas storage levels are below the average of the last 5 years, the Group noted that constant injection since the beginning of April represents a positive signal. It will notably allow the EU to benefit from a longer injection period and adapt to market circumstances to mitigate pressure on prices and avoid end-of-summer rush.
The Commission recalled the letter sent by Commissioner Jørgensen inviting EU countries to make use of the flexibility provisions in the Gas Storage Regulation and to consider reducing their filling target to 80% as early as possible in the filling season, to provide certainty and reassurance to market participants.
The Commission will continue assessing the situation with regards to security of gas supply, in coordination with EU countries and industry in the Gas Coordination Group and take further action should it be necessary.
