Natural Gas

While the EU remains dependent on imports of natural gas, it is continuously trying to diversify its gas suppliers. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and weaponisation of energy has put diversification of supply even higher on the EU’s agenda.

The Commission is therefore encouraging Member States to: (i) develop new LNG import infrastructure; (ii) conclude long-term supply contracts in order to secure a sufficient volume of LNG for their own populations; (iii) and develop joint storage facilities.

The key objective is solidarity among Member States. The Commission aims to develop a collective buying power within the EU by implementing solidarity obligations for the benefit of the Member States that are not able to secure the critical gas volumes requirements. These obligations will also apply to Member States with LNG facilities.