EU reviewing contingency plans for gas supply disruptions

(EurActiv, 3 Feb 2022) The European Union is reviewing contingency plans for disruptions to gas supply, although countries’ storage and infrastructure should buffer against major shocks, the EU’s energy policy chief said on Wednesday (2 February).

Escalating tensions between the West and Russia over Ukraine have raised concerns about Russian gas flows to Europe, prompting the European Commission and the United States to investigate alternatives.

Kadri Simson, the energy commissioner for the 27-nation bloc, said the results of the review were due later this month.

“It is important that all member states work on preparedness and review contingency plans to ensure they are fit for purpose,” Simson told the European Parliament’s energy committee. “The commission is conducting an assessment of the situation at European level in liaison with member states.”

EU rules require member countries to each have a plan to respond to a gas crisis, including market-based measures like requiring suppliers to quickly seek alternatives, and government interventions such as instructing companies to switch off industrial facilities.

“We think that the available gas stocks in the EU and our good network of LNG terminals will protect us against major security of supply problems,” Simson said.

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EurActiv, 3 Feb 2022: EU reviewing contingency plans for gas supply disruptions