Title: “High Gas Storage in Europe Raises Concerns Amid Uncertain Winter Prospects”
As of October 8, European gas storage facilities were nearly 97% full, approximately 9 percentage points above the five-year average. While this suggests robust preparations for the upcoming winter season, there are concerns that various unforeseen events, such as supply disruptions, a severe winter, or increased demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Asia, could disrupt Europe’s careful planning.
The potential consequences are significant, with a gas price surge during Europe’s cost of living crisis posing a risk of bolstering right-leaning populist parties and hindering climate policy efforts. This highlights the delicate balance that Europe must maintain in its energy supply to address both economic and environmental challenges.