Mayor flexibilidad en las reservas de gas para precios más bajos.
Con 425 votos a favor, 106 against, and 43 abstentions, the Parliament greenlit the Commission’s expansion until December 31, 2027, of the EU gas storage regime adopted in 2022, which was initially set to expire at the end of 2025. The measure aims to ensure gas supply for the winter.
MEPs have introduced several changes to ease the tension in the market, as the current requirement to reach 90% reserves before November 1 has fueled speculation and increased filling costs during the summer.
Flexibility in Gas Storage
MEPs propose reducing the reserve target from 90% to 83%, achievable at any time between October 1 and December 1 each year. Member States could deviate up to four percentage points from the target in case of unfavorable market conditions, such as supply disruptions or demand peaks. If these circumstances persist, the Commission could authorize an additional deviation of up to four percentage points.
However, Member States must ensure that the combined effect of flexibility and exceptions does not lower the overall reserve level below 75%.
Total Embargo on Russian Gas «Necessary and Feasible»
MEPs believe that, in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, Member States should refrain from storing Russian gases. They emphasize that the EU should immediately impose sanctions on Russian gas imports, including liquefied natural gas. A complete embargo on Russian gases is deemed necessary and feasible.
Journalist’s Statement
«It is crucial for Europe to protect its citizens when Russia is trying to use gas as leverage,» said Borys Budka (EPP, Poland) during the plenary debate. The Parliament aims to provide «more flexibility and less bureaucracy, but especially lower gas prices in Europe,» he added.
Next Steps
Following the plenary vote, the European Parliament will commence negotiations with the Polish Council Presidency, with the first round scheduled for May 13.
Context
EU energy security has become crucial in recent years, largely due to its reliance on third countries for primary energy supply. The 2022 energy crisis, exacerbated by Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent use of gas as a pressure tool, underscored the urgent need for additional measures to ensure a stable and accessible energy supply.
In response, the EU has implemented new gas storage regulations. However, the global market remains under pressure, with increasing competition for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and persistent price volatility.
