Germany's gas reserves dip to 39.7% as cold weather drives prices up
Germany's gas storage levels have dropped to 39.7% as of 21 January, raising concerns amid the current cold weather. Despite this, authorities confirm that supply security remains stable. A recent spike in gas prices has added pressure, though officials insist the situation is under control for now.
Gas prices in Europe climbed sharply to €39 per megawatt-hour in recent days. The increase followed forecasts of below-average January temperatures across parts of Europe and Asia, along with financial market speculation. Still, current prices stay well below the peak of €59 per megawatt-hour seen in the winter of 2024–2025.
The Bundesnetzagentur, Germany's Federal Network Agency, has maintained the early warning level (Stufe 1 of 3) since July 2025. This level was introduced after the alarm stage was lifted by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. No specific timeline has been set for storage levels to return to normal, but the agency confirms no national supply disruptions exist.
Global LNG supply remains sufficient, with expanding production—particularly from the U.S.—offsetting rising demand in Asia. Michael Kellner, a Green Party lawmaker, has warned about the high costs of LNG imports. He is pushing for stricter rules to prevent future storage shortages.
Both the federal government and the Bundesnetzagentur have stated that Germany faces no immediate risk of a gas supply crisis this winter. Cold weather has driven up demand, yet officials stress that the system is stable and secure.
Germany's gas reserves sit at 39.7%, with prices rising due to the current cold weather and market speculation. Authorities have reassured the public that supply remains secure, though calls for tighter storage regulations are growing. For now, the country's gas infrastructure continues to operate without disruption.
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