European Commission Proposes Extension Of Gas Storage Obligations Until End Of 2027 For Energy Security

The European Commission has put forward a proposal to extend the EU's gas storage obligations until the end of 2027. This move aims to secure energy supply and stabilise the European gas markets. The proposal includes a recommendation for Member States to consider current market conditions when setting national measures for refilling storage facilities.

For the summer 2025 storage filling season, the Commission plans to offer more flexibility to Member States. This approach will help them fill their facilities under optimal purchase conditions throughout the season. Enhanced flexibility in achieving targets is intended to prevent potential market distortions.

Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, stated: "Gas storage has shielded EU citizens from the risk of supply disruptions and this is why it is crucial that we continue with this tool. However, Member States need sufficient flexibility to fill the storage throughout the summer under the best conditions. We are recommending this flexibility today to avoid market distortions in the current situation and reduce the stress in the market."

The existing regulation, valid until year-end, already offers some flexibility and safeguards. It permits a 5-percentage point deviation from intermediary filling targets. Additionally, if technical issues or specific market conditions arise, Member States can meet the 90% target by 1 December instead of 1 November.

The regulation also provides lower filling obligations for countries with significant underground storage capacity. Moreover, nations with substantial LNG storage infrastructure can count such storage towards meeting their 1 November target. These provisions aim to accommodate varying national circumstances while maintaining overall supply stability.

A report released today highlights that since its adoption in 2022, the Gas Storage Regulation has contributed to stable supplies and less volatile gas markets. The report underscores how these measures have been effective in ensuring energy security across Europe.

This two-year extension proposal reflects ongoing efforts to adapt regulatory frameworks according to evolving market dynamics. By considering specific developments on the gas market, Member States can optimise their strategies for filling storage facilities efficiently.

With inputs from WAM