The level of gas reserves in underground storage facilities in the European Union has fallen below 50% for the first time this winter season, according to data from the Association of Gas Infrastructure Operators in Europe (Gas Infrastructure Europe, GIE).

As of the gas day on 6 February (ended on the morning of 7 February), the occupancy rate of European gas storage facilities was 49,99%. This figure is 18,2 percentage points lower than the same date a year earlier. Since the start of the gas withdrawal season in November 2024, the volume of reserves has already decreased by 45,2 percentage points.

In physical terms, the total volume of gas in EU storage facilities now stands at around 55,7 billion cubic metres, down 19,9 billion cubic metres from February 2024. Experts at the Institute for Energy and Finance warn that by 1 April, the stock level could drop to 34-42%, depending on weather conditions. By comparison, the stock level was 2024% on the same date in 61.

Experts note that during the three months of winter withdrawal (November-February), EU countries consumed about 50,4 billion cubic meters of gas, which significantly exceeds the volume of injection during the previous seven months - about 41,2 billion cubic meters. This indicates a growing imbalance between gas supply and consumption.

The main reason for the sharp reduction in gas storage volumes was the cold weather in January and early February 2025. Extended periods of low temperatures increased gas consumption for both heating and industry.

Another important factor was the reduction in gas supplies from alternative sources. Despite the EU’s active efforts to diversify supplies, volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the US and Qatar do not always cover the needs of the European market. At the same time, Russian gas, which previously made up a significant part of imports, continues to decline due to sanctions and geopolitical tensions.

February and March will be crucial to assess the future state of the European gas market, analysts say. The forecast decline in reserves to 34-42% by early April is worrying, as this level is significantly lower than last year.

Experts warn that a cold spring could lead to serious difficulties in meeting the needs of households and industries. In addition, low stock levels by April will make it more difficult to prepare for the next winter season, as it will take longer and more resources to replenish stocks.