Germany and the Federal Network Agency say there is no gas shortage this winter. In a written reply to Green Member of Parliament Michael Kellner, the Ministry of Economics added that supply security remains “ensured even with lower temperatures”.
As of 21 January, the national gas storage level was only 39.7 %. The Ministry noted that while global demand has spiked because of weather, there is still ample liquefied natural gas (LNG) available on the world market, and that overall LNG supplies – especially from the United States – are increasing.
Gas prices in Europe, according to the ministry, have stayed lower than the winter of 2024/25, even though temperature drops have occurred. Connemann reported a recent spike to about €39 per megawatt‑hour, citing hotter‑than‑normal weather forecasts in parts of Europe and Asia that caused January temperatures to be below average in some areas. The ministry also pointed to speculative activity in financial markets as a driver of the price volatility. Despite the rise, prices are still far below the €59 per megawatt‑hour peak seen last winter.
The Federal Network Agency has initially issued reassurances. However, Kellner warned that Germany’s low storage levels are forcing costly LNG imports. “The government walked straight into this situation. With empty tanks, Germany must buy at high prices, and we need new rules to prevent a repeat” he said, reflecting his former role as a senior official in the federal economic ministry.