Brief
Germany orders state firm SEFE to increase winter gas reserves
The German economy ministry instructed SEFE to raise gas storage levels, which are at about 58% of capacity, citing geopolitical risks from the Iran war.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Germany's economy ministry told AFP on Wednesday that it has instructed the state-owned company SEFE to increase natural gas storage ahead of winter, citing heightened geopolitical risks linked to the Iran war.
Gas inventories are currently around 58% full, well below the EU average of roughly 70% and beneath the legally required level for Germany's winter needs. The ministry said the move is meant to signal other operators to boost their reserves as well.
SEFE, which was formerly the German arm of Gazprom and now runs about a quarter of the country's gas storage capacity, will decide the amount and timing of the increase. Berlin also plans to create a strategic gas reserve starting in 2027 to guard against future energy shocks.
Economy Minister Katherina Reiche approved the order, according to a ministry spokeswoman, while European gas prices have surged to a three‑year high amid the Middle East conflict and the near‑total closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Key facts
- Germany's gas storage is about 58% full, below the EU average of 70% (deccanchronicle.com)
- Economy Minister Katherina Reiche ordered state firm SEFE to increase gas reserves (deccanchronicle.com)
- SEFE operates roughly 25% of Germany's gas storage capacity (deccanchronicle.com)
- Berlin plans a strategic gas reserve beginning in 2027 (deccanchronicle.com)
Sources
- [1] deccanchronicle.com — originally reported as “Germany Orders Winter Gas Reserves Boost as Mideast War Worries Mount”
