Europe is confronting a potential gas shortage as storage facilities across the continent remain significantly underfilled. One of Europe’s largest gas storage sites near Amsterdam is currently only about 12% full. Typically, companies begin replenishing these underground reserves at the start of April, but high prices have made buyers hesitant. With the weather remaining cold, these storage facilities are gradually emptying, raising concerns ahead of the winter season.
Europe relies heavily on imported natural gas, with around 85% coming from external sources. After the 2022 conflict between Russia and Ukraine triggered severe energy shortages, the European Union implemented rules mandating member states to fill their gas storage depots to 90% capacity by November 1st. However, this regulation was relaxed last year after it caused a sharp increase in gas prices.
The current figures highlight the scale of the challenge. Across the EU, gas storage facilities are only around 28% full, down from 33% at the same time last year and 58% two years ago. Germany’s storage sites are at 22% capacity compared to 29% in 2025, while in the Netherlands, storage levels are alarmingly low at just 5%.
Despite the low levels, EU authorities advise against panic. They expect that underground gas reserves, which supply approximately one-third of European winter gas consumption, can still be filled in time. However, if storage levels remain insufficient, governments may have to purchase expensive gas on the open market, costs that would ultimately be passed on to consumers through higher energy bills.
Officials recommend that governments prepare emergency measures, including the option of using “cushion gas,” which is required to maintain pressure inside storage facilities. This would act as a last-resort solution if supply shortages intensify. Brussels has warned that Europe could face a severe energy crisis if gas storage capacity is not increased, particularly if tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran persist.
The EU is also urging citizens to conserve energy to help mitigate potential shortages. However, countries like the Netherlands have not fully implemented these recommendations. Analysts warn that without immediate action, Europe could struggle to meet winter gas demand, placing pressure on economies and households across the continent.
In conclusion, Europe’s energy security faces a challenging period due to geopolitical tensions and underfilled storage facilities. Governments must act swiftly to secure supplies, prepare emergency strategies, and encourage energy-saving measures to avoid a crisis that could impact millions of citizens and businesses.