EU gas storage: Commission urges early winter preparations amid Middle East disruption

EU gas storage preparations should begin early and in a coordinated way, according to the European Commission, which says the bloc remains protected for now but must act quickly to manage market volatility ahead of next winter.

The European Commission has called on EU countries to start gas filling season preparations early and in close coordination, warning that ongoing disruption linked to conflict in the Middle East could increase volatility in energy markets ahead of next winter. The Commission said the EU’s energy security remains protected at this stage, partly because of limited dependence on imports from the region and LNG cargoes that had already passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict.

However, Brussels stressed that early and coordinated storage injections will be essential to avoid a late-summer rush, ease pressure on prices and help member states adapt to changing market conditions. Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen said the EU is far better prepared than in 2022, but still exposed to global market volatility, making timely action on winter preparedness critical.

In its communication to EU energy ministers, the Commission also highlighted that the EU Gas Storage Regulation gives member states greater flexibility to meet filling targets, including under certain conditions allowing more time or lower target levels when markets are under stress. That flexibility is intended to reduce pressure on gas demand and support more stable pricing across Europe.

For gas market participants, the message is clear: storage policy, timing and coordination will remain central to Europe’s energy security strategy as the bloc prepares for the 2026/27 heating season.

Source: European Commission