Regulation on gas supply security and reducing dependence on Russian gas

The European Parliament has adopted a new regulation extending and adjusting gas storage rules to ensure the Union's energy security. This text responds to the need to reduce dependence on Russian gas and address energy market volatility. The regulation affects all member states and operators in the gas sector.

Context and objectives

The regulation amends Regulation (EU) 2017/1938 on gas supply security. Main objectives include strengthening energy independence from Russia, maintaining adequate gas storage levels, and facilitating the transition to market mechanisms. The current geopolitical context and experience from the 2022-2023 energy crisis justify these measures.

Key measures

• Extension of gas storage obligations by two years, until end of 2027
• Reduction of gas storage filling target to 83% of capacity
• Introduction of flexibility up to 4 percentage points in meeting filling targets
• Possibility for European Commission to increase flexibility to 8 percentage points under unfavorable market conditions
• Ensuring minimum filling level does not fall below 75% under any circumstances
• Promotion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) use from alternative sources

Timeline and implementation

Provisions enter into force immediately after publication in the EU Official Journal. Member states must submit indicative annual filling plans for storage facilities. The European Commission will continuously monitor the market and report on implementation. A comprehensive review of the legislative framework is planned by 2027.

Impact for citizens and stakeholders

Citizens will benefit from greater energy price stability and enhanced supply security. Gas sector operators will have more flexibility in managing reserves, while member states maintain their crisis response capacity. The measures contribute to the strategic objective of reducing dependence on Russian gas and promote the energy transition.