As temperatures begin to drop, Germany’s natural-gas storage facilities are notably less full than in previous years.
According to data from the Science Media Center (SMC), national storage levels have fallen to about 76 percent as of 29 September 2025 — below both last year’s level and the EU average of 83 percent.
The SMC notes that this is only the second time since 2021 that storage volumes have dipped below the level recorded at the start of the year — a rare pattern first seen after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Normally, German gas stocks rise steadily from March and reach their annual peak between mid-October and mid-November, supported by the country’s Gas Storage Regulation (GasSpFüllstV).
This year, however, summer refilling lagged behind expectations.
Experts urge calm: No shortage expected
Despite the lower levels, energy analysts say there is no immediate reason for concern.
Franziska Holz, deputy head of the Energy, Transport and Environment Department at the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), said storage levels between 70 and 80 percent are “not alarming,” since both Germany and Europe can cover most of their winter demand through pipeline and LNG imports.
She emphasized that current supply routes are stable and that no disruptions are expected.
Holz also pointed to more flexible EU minimum-storage requirements, which allow lower national levels if overall supply security is guaranteed through imports.
Unlike in 2022, she said, Germany will not need to make emergency gas purchases this winter.
No crisis, but caution remains
Jochen Linßen, head of the Integrated Infrastructure Department at Forschungszentrum Jülich, agreed with that assessment.
He told reporters that the European gas-supply situation remains stable despite smaller reserves.
However, he warned that multiple external shocks — for example, a very cold winter combined with renewed geopolitical tensions in LNG-exporting regions — could rapidly change the picture and trigger fresh price spikes.
“If several effects occur simultaneously, such as severe cold and a stronger economy, demand could rise sharply,” Linßen said.
Weather and industry consumption are key
Klaus Müller, president of Germany’s Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), also stressed that the real test will depend on temperatures and industrial demand in the coming months.
He urged both households and companies to continue saving energy, recommending moderate indoor heating and regular maintenance of gas boilers to improve efficiency.
Conclusion: Low storage, but no panic
While Germany’s gas reserves are currently below the European average, experts agree that supply security is not at risk — at least for now.
With steady LNG inflows, flexible EU storage rules, and cautious consumption, the country appears well positioned to get through the winter.
Still, analysts advise vigilance: weather extremes or political disruptions could quickly turn a calm situation into a new energy challenge.
