Europe begins winter with tight gas reserves
European storage is 74.62 per cent full, leaving a smaller buffer against cold weather and disruptions.
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European gas storage is 74.62 per cent full at the start of the winter season. This is shown by the latest figures from Gas Infrastructure Europe, which also reveal major differences between countries.
On 25 October, 846.39 terawatt hours of gas was held in storage in the European Union. Germany, Europe’s largest storage market, stood at 61.48 per cent; the Netherlands at 65.24 per cent. France and Italy had clearly higher filling levels, at 87.18 and 90.02 per cent respectively.
The figures do not mean that Europe is immediately facing shortages. Gas Infrastructure Europe says the infrastructure retains sufficient flexibility under varying conditions to meet winter demand. However, the margin is smaller, meaning the market may respond more sensitively to cold weather, supply disruptions or additional demand from Asia.
The Dutch gas market is part of the same European market. A lower level of storage can therefore influence wholesale prices, even if sufficient gas is available in the Netherlands itself. According to the latest data, Dutch storage is less full than storage in France, Italy and Poland.
The gas price therefore remains dependent on more than just the weather. The availability of liquefied natural gas, demand for gas for electricity generation and geopolitical disruptions also play a role. Reuters reported that Europe may face higher gas prices for longer because storage levels are relatively low after the summer.
The storage figures do not provide a precise price forecast for the whole winter. A mild winter may limit demand, while a prolonged cold period would draw down reserves more quickly. The European Commission and national regulators are therefore monitoring both stocks and import capacity.
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One story, several perspectives
What is established
- European gas storage was 74.62 per cent full on 25 October.
- Filling levels vary considerably between member states.
- Gas Infrastructure Europe considers the system’s flexibility sufficient, but the margin smaller than usual.
- Alongside storage levels, gas prices depend on demand, weather and international supply.
Left
Arguments The low level of reserves shows that Europe must invest more quickly in energy efficiency, renewable energy and reducing its dependence on fossil fuel imports.
Values Climate policy, affordability for vulnerable households and strategic autonomy.
Consequences Accelerating the energy transition could reduce demand for gas, but requires public investment and may be costly in the short term.
Centre
Arguments Storage, imports and affordability must be monitored at the same time. Temporary support or joint European procurement may be necessary while structural alternatives are not yet ready.
Values Security of supply, predictability and workable policy.
Consequences A mixed approach limits acute risks, but leaves Europe dependent on gas for the time being.
Right
Arguments The figures underline that affordable and reliable energy must take priority over additional obligations that could restrict supply.
Values Competitiveness, low costs and national room for manoeuvre.
Consequences Allowing more room for gas and infrastructure could reduce winter risks, but prolongs dependence on fossil fuels.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
Fact-check Approved · Nour Haddad — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The storage percentages were checked directly against the latest GIE data. The broader consequences for prices and security of supply are cautiously worded and described as possible developments.
- confirmed European gas storage was 74.62 per cent full on 25 October 2026. — Latest figures from Gas Infrastructure Europe. source
- confirmed Germany stood at 61.48 per cent and the Netherlands at 65.24 per cent. — Country figures in the GIE dataset. source
- confirmed Lower European storage levels may make the gas market more sensitive to cold weather and disruptions. — GIE describes a smaller margin and uncertainty surrounding LNG supply; the wording has been kept cautious. source
Editor's note
The storage figures are current and come from Gas Infrastructure Europe. The possible effects on prices are market analysis; no specific price development has been forecast.Sources
- Gas storage data on 25 October 2026 — Gas Infrastructure Europe
- Europe set for another year of high gas prices as reserves hit lows — Reuters via MarketScreener
More on this in Dutch media
- NOS — „gas energie”
- Het Parool — „gas energie”
- de Volkskrant — „gas energie”