The European Union called on member states to begin filling gas storage facilities earlier than usual, warning that delays could intensify competition for supplies and drive prices higher during the coming months.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen urged governments to act swiftly and take advantage of regulatory flexibility, as the bloc seeks to shield itself from the growing fallout of the Iran War March 2026.
In a notable policy shift, the EU recommended lowering its gas storage target to 80%, down from previous higher benchmarks, in an effort to reduce pressure on global markets during the summer when demand for refilling typically rises.
Member states will have until December 1 to meet their storage obligations, with additional flexibility allowing deviations of up to 10 percentage points, plus a further margin under unfavorable market conditions.
The move comes amid heightened uncertainty following recent Iranian attacks on liquefied natural gas facilities in Qatar, which could take years to fully repair. Although the EU has reduced its direct reliance on Middle Eastern gas, disruptions in the region are still impacting global prices and intensifying competition for available cargoes.
Officials noted that Europe’s current supply position remains relatively stable, supported in part by LNG shipments that transited the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict escalated.
As a net energy importer, the EU remains highly exposed to fluctuations in global energy prices. Policymakers are now attempting to strike a balance between ensuring supply security and avoiding excessive market strain that could further inflate costs.
The early storage push reflects growing concern that prolonged instability in global energy markets could disrupt refill cycles and leave the region vulnerable ahead of the next winter season.
Follow the latest news on Google News
