EU member states are working to adjust gas storage requirements to introduce greater flexibility, as concerns grow that rigid targets could drive up prices. Countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands have warned that strict deadlines for filling gas reserves could signal to the market that European buyers must purchase large volumes within set timeframes, potentially leading to price manipulation.
Negotiations are underway to modify these targets. While the European Commission recently proposed maintaining binding storage requirements until 2027, EU member states and the European Parliament have the ability to propose amendments before finalizing the regulations. A draft proposal suggests revising the current rule, which mandates that gas storage be filled to 90% capacity by November 1 each year. Under the new plan, the deadline could be extended, allowing storage levels to be met anytime between October 1 and December 1. Additionally, intermediate targets for gradually filling reserves throughout the year would become voluntary rather than mandatory.
Although the European Commission has signaled a more relaxed approach to enforcing this year’s November storage target, some member states remain concerned about potential price spikes if gas costs rise sharply. The original storage regulations, introduced in 2022 following Russia’s supply cuts, were designed to secure a stable fuel supply and ensure EU countries had sufficient reserves to meet peak winter heating demands.
