Ukraine Aims to Stockpile Minimum of 13.2 Billion Cubic Meters of Gas Before Winter, Says Shmyhal

In a recent session of the Crisis Committee, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, reported on the critically important indicators for natural gas accumulation in underground storage facilities. He stated that to successfully navigate the winter, particularly under conditions of low temperatures and potential mass attacks, Ukraine must ensure a minimum of 13.2 billion cubic meters of gas is available at the start of the heating season.

Shmyhal underscored that this figure was determined based on experiences from previous heating seasons. 'Our benchmark remains the experience of past heating seasons: the presence of natural gas in underground storage must be at least 13.2 billion cubic meters at the beginning of the heating season. This will allow us to pass through the winter stably, even under low temperatures and mass attacks. Thus, 13.2 billion cubic meters has been defined as a critically necessary minimum,' the minister stated in his message on Telegram.

At the same time, under the baseline scenario, the plan is to accumulate 14.6 billion cubic meters of gas by the beginning of the heating season. Shmyhal clarified that this forecast could be adjusted depending on the security situation in the country. This indicates that the Ukrainian government is prepared to respond to changes in the external environment and adapt its plans accordingly.

The minister also reported that Naftogaz of Ukraine and the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine are actively working on reserving potential capacities for natural gas imports. They are also engaged in extending the operation of the 'Vertical Gas Corridor' product routes, which is an important step towards ensuring the country's energy security. Shmyhal emphasized that timely contracting of gas imports, resource injection into underground storage during periods of the lowest market prices, and diversification of supply routes are critical tasks for stable passage through the upcoming winter.

Additionally, during the Crisis Committee meeting, special attention was given to preparations for the repair campaign. The minister noted that participants coordinated actions regarding the formation of equipment reserves for planned, unplanned, and emergency works. This provision of needs occurs in close collaboration with international partners and donors, highlighting the importance of international support in the energy sector.

It is worth recalling that in March of this year, the leadership of Naftogaz of Ukraine held a meeting with a delegation from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). The meeting also included the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires in Ukraine, Julie S. Davis. The discussion focused on expanding financial instruments to increase purchases of American liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is a crucial step towards ensuring Ukraine's energy independence.

Thus, preparations for the heating season in Ukraine are ongoing, and the government is doing everything possible to ensure energy stability in the face of modern challenges.