In response to the recent halt of Russian oil deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline, Hungarian energy company MOL has initiated procedures to access the nation’s emergency crude reserves. This step comes as the company seeks authorization from Hungary’s Ministry of Energy to release oil from strategic storage, a move aimed at sustaining refinery operations during this supply crisis.
The disruption in pipeline flows began on January 27, creating significant supply challenges for both Hungary and Slovakia. To address this shortfall, MOL is shifting its logistics strategy towards maritime imports, planning to supplement the loss with tanker shipments. However, these maritime deliveries will entail longer transit times compared to traditional pipeline flows. The first tankers are anticipated to reach Croatia’s Adriatic port of Omisalj by early March, with an additional five to twelve days required for transportation to MOL’s refineries. As a result, any replacement volumes are unlikely to arrive before mid-March.
MOL has indicated that if supplies from the east do not resume shortly, Hungary may initially release about 250,000 barrels from its strategic reserves. The formal request submitted to the Ministry is a critical step in mobilizing these emergency resources.
In parallel, MOL is collaborating closely with Slovak authorities to ensure a unified regional response to the supply disruptions. The company operates the Slovnaft refinery in Bratislava, which boasts a processing capacity of 124,000 barrels per day. This capacity underscores the importance of maintaining uninterrupted crude access for regional fuel stability.
Despite these supply challenges, MOL has reassured stakeholders that both Hungary and Slovakia possess emergency reserves equivalent to 90 days of consumption, complying with European Union regulations. Additionally, fuel distribution at retail levels remains stable and domestic markets continue operating without major interruptions. Authorities are actively monitoring developments as alternative supply routes are being established.
