The Federal Network Agency has dismissed recent concerns and criticisms regarding low levels in gas storage facilities. Speaking to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” agency head Klaus Müller stated that while he emotionally understands the desire for full reserves by mid-May, such a state is neither economically nor physically necessary.
Müller pointed out that the operation of four Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminals along the North and Baltic Seas significantly helped during last winter. While gas storage remains important, he argued that the heightened level of focus seen during 2022 and 2023 is no longer required.
Despite his reassurances, Müller noted positively that three percentage points were stored over the past two weeks, classifying this timing as “very early”. He also confirmed that Germany’s large cavern storage facilities could potentially be filled within 30 days. Although he stressed that gas traders cannot be relieved of their responsibilities, Müller cautioned both the public and the industry not to succumb to panic or unnecessary haste.
