German Industry Warns of Winter Gas Shortage

Germany’s mechanical engineering sector has warned of possible gas shortages this winter as the country struggles to refill its storage facilities. German gas storage sites are currently only around 50% full.

According to gas storage association INES, this is the lowest level for this time of year since records began in 2011, compared with 67% at the same point last year.

Gas prices have soared because of the war with Iran, prompting traders to buy less gas for sale during the winter. German Engineering Federation (VDMA) executive director Thilo Brodtmann said natural gas is essential for many critical processes in the sector and warned that physical shortages or soaring prices would pose a serious threat to the industry.

VDMA has called on utilities, wholesalers and the government to ensure Germany has sufficient gas supplies. The Economy Ministry, however, maintains that private gas companies and traders bear primary responsibility for securing supplies. It does not currently expect a gas shortage this winter but is preparing measures that could be implemented quickly if the situation worsens.

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