The Gas Coordination Group convened to assess the current gas market situation in Europe, reviewing the 2026-2027 Winter Supply Outlook report released by the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Gas (ENTSOG). While gas storage levels are lower than historical averages, the report assures that the EU gas system remains sufficiently flexible to meet winter demand.
The EU's infrastructure can handle increased imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to compensate for lower storage levels. ENTSOG emphasized the need to maintain adequate storage levels throughout the season to prepare for late winter cold spells and facilitate storage refilling next summer.
The current situation contrasts sharply with winter 2021-2022, as the EU is now better prepared due to diversified gas supply sources, expanded LNG import capacity, and reduced gas demand. The decision to import LNG or withdraw gas from storage will depend on market dynamics and winter temperatures.
The European Commission also discussed the implementation of the REPowerEU Gas Regulation, focusing on preparations for the end of Russian long-term contracts for LNG imports starting next year. The Commission will closely monitor storage levels, gas supply, and prices throughout the winter in collaboration with EU countries and market participants.