The head of the Vienna energy group OMV has issued a warning regarding potential energy supply shortfalls stemming from conflict in Iran. Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, OMV Managing Board Chairman Alfred Stern stated that Europe needs to increase investment in its long-term energy security and must avoid becoming increasingly dependent on external sources.
When questioned about guaranteeing the availability of kerosene, gas, and oil for the current year, Stern admitted he could not provide a concrete assurance due to the high level of uncertainty. However, he guaranteed that ensuring customers receive reliable supply remains the company’s top priority.
He cautioned that making accurate forecasts under the present circumstances is impractical. He stressed that energy companies must remain “agile” and ready to prepare for all scenarios. Stern noted that in the past three decades, the industry had become accustomed to having sufficient supplies of gas, oil, and other resources, leading to a forgotten fundamental truth: energy security comes at a significant cost.
OMV supplies Vienna Airport via a pipeline originating from its Schwechat refinery, and Munich Airport is supplied through a pipeline from Burghausen. According to Stern, the company has so far managed to supply all its customers without incident. Moreover, he confirmed that he is maintaining close communication with airlines, including the Lufthansa Group.
