Low Natural Gas Storage Levels in Germany Revive Shortage Fears
As winter approaches, concerns over low natural gas storage levels in Germany have sparked anxiety, prompting the Ministry of Economy to issue instructions to the company SEFE.
As of September 20, 2026, natural gas storage facilities in Germany remaining at 57 percent capacity has brought back gas shortage concerns and political debates ahead of the winter period.
Current Status and Levels in Storage Facilities
As of September 20, 2026, storage facilities across Germany hold approximately 141 terawatt-hours of natural gas, which corresponds to 57 percent of the total capacity.
Political Debates and the Ministry's Move
Following Bavaria's Minister-President Markus Söder's demand for federal government intervention and criticism from the opposition, Minister of Economy Katherina Reiche took action.
Minister Reiche announced that she instructed state energy company SEFE to store more natural gas due to low fill levels and geopolitical risks.
Expert Opinions and Technical Assessments
Sebastian Heinermann, General Manager of the Gas and Hydrogen Storage Association, stated that it is technically possible to increase the storage fill level to 77 percent, but it requires intensive effort.
The Federal Network Agency publicly announced that security of supply is ensured and that they consider the risk of experiencing serious problems during the winter months to be low.
Upward Trend in Prices
Natural gas prices, which were around 46 euros per megawatt-hour in the second quarter, have climbed above 80 euros with recent developments.