European underground gas storage facilities are filled at just 51.1 percent – the lowest level in six years. This is 15.28 percentage points below the five-year average for this date. While the EU requires 90 percent fill by October, current injection rates are the weakest since 2020.
According to data cited by the Polish energy portal WNP.PL, total gas reserves in EU storage amount to 55.9 billion cubic metres – 11.6 bcm less than a year ago. The slow pace of refilling is attributed to extreme summer heat, which boosts energy demand, and disruptions in LNG supplies from Qatar due to tensions in the Persian Gulf.
Analysts warn that storage levels may not even reach 75 percent before the heating season begins in October. In July so far, net injections into EU storage are 14 percent lower than in the same period last year, marking the worst performance in half a decade.
Poland leads despite European shortfall
Poland’s gas storage facilities are 74.52 percent full – the highest rate among all major EU consumers. This puts Warsaw in a comparatively comfortable position, although the country still relies on imports to meet demand. Polish operators have not yet accelerated injection rates despite the looming winter.
The EU mandate requires member states to reach 90 percent storage capacity between 1 October and 1 December. With current trends, several countries may struggle to comply, risking higher prices and potential supply shortages.
Geopolitical tensions and market dynamics
The main factor behind the sluggish refill is the situation in the Persian Gulf and the interruption of Qatari LNG shipments. European buyers, unlike their Asian counterparts, are unwilling to pay any price for spot cargoes. This reluctance is slowing the rebuilding of reserves.
Meanwhile, extreme heatwaves across the continent are driving up electricity demand, further limiting the gas available for injection. The combination of high consumption and reduced supply is creating a delicate balance ahead of winter.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Leszek Kobusinski / Shutterstock
