German economy minister: Gas storage facilities activities are increasing, now it is around 50% full.

German economy minister: Gas storage facilities activities are increasing, now it is around 50% full.

Germany's gas storage facilities have shown signs of increased activity, with current levels reaching approximately 50% full, according to the latest reports. This development marks a significant improvement from the previous lows and aligns with the government's targets for ensuring energy security and market stability.

The German economy minister recently highlighted this progress, noting that the storage levels are now around 50% full. This figure represents a notable recovery from the lows experienced in recent years, particularly in the wake of the energy crisis that gripped the country in 2022. The minister's comments underscore the government's commitment to maintaining adequate gas storage levels to meet the country's energy needs.

Germany's largest gas storage site, Rehden, has been a focal point in this narrative. Despite its significant capacity of nearly 44 TWh, Rehden has historically lagged in terms of storage levels. As of the latest reports, Rehden was just 2.2% full, raising concerns among industry experts. However, the government has set new targets to ensure that Rehden reaches at least 45% capacity by November 1 [1].

The German government has also taken steps to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and industry by abolishing the gas storage levy from 2026. This move is part of a broader strategy to support the economy amid high energy prices. The levy, currently set at €2.99/MWh for the first half of 2025 and €2.89/MWh for the second half, was introduced in 2022 to cover losses incurred during the energy crisis [2].

The decision to abolish the levy has faced criticism from various quarters, including opposition parties and industry associations. Critics argue that using the climate transformation fund (KTF) for fossil fuel subsidies is counterproductive to Germany's climate goals. However, the government maintains that this move is essential for supporting industry and consumers in the face of high energy prices.

The German energy and water association BDEW has criticized the use of the KTF for non-climate-related expenses, asserting that such consumption-related costs should be included in the core budget. The WWF has also raised constitutional concerns, warning that the constitutional court could force the government to redo its budget planning [2].

Despite these challenges, the government remains steadfast in its decision to lower energy prices, asserting that this move is crucial for supporting industry during the transition phase. The minister emphasized that the fund is both a climate fund and a transformation fund, designed to facilitate Germany's transition to a sustainable and climate-neutral economy.

In conclusion, Germany's gas storage facilities have shown signs of recovery, with current levels reaching 50% full. The government's targets and recent policy decisions aim to ensure energy security and support the economy amid high energy prices. However, these moves have also sparked debate and criticism, highlighting the complex nature of balancing energy security, climate goals, and economic stability.

References:
[1] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/montel_energymarkets-gasmarkets-germany-activity-7344360719041130498-IoNp
[2] https://www.argusmedia.com/en/news-and-insights/latest-market-news/2702865-germany-to-abolish-gas-storage-levy-from-2026