Germany's Economic Ministry said gas storage of 60–70% at the start of winter,
together with additional import capacity, would typically suffice to meet
average winter demand, implying limited buffer against supply disruptions for
Europe's largest energy consumer. The ministry added the government is able and
will act if energy security is threatened. Disruptions to gas flows from the
Middle East this year and a reduced incentive for utilities and traders to
stockpile have left Europe struggling to refill reserves. EU storage is just
above 61% — the lowest for the season since records began in 2009 — while
Germany's facilities are around 50% full.
