German cabinet backs strategic gas reserve for emergencies

Germany’s cabinet backed legislation for a strategic gas reserve on November 11. The government plans to hold 24 terawatt-hours of additional gas, roughly a tenth of national storage capacity, as protection against exceptional disruptions such as sabotage or attacks on infrastructure.

Trading Hub Europe would begin building the reserve from 2027, spreading purchases over three years to limit effects on the market. The government says the volume could support supplies for 30 days if crucial import infrastructure failed.

The reserve would be released following an emergency declaration by the Federal Network Agency. The proposal establishes preparations for future crises; the government’s accompanying account says Germany’s present gas supply remains secure.