Shmyhal: Ukraine Aims to Accumulate 14.6 Billion Cubic Meters of Gas by Start of 2026/2027 Heating Season

As the 2026/2027 heating season approaches, Ukraine has set an ambitious goal to accumulate 14.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas. This announcement was made by Denys Shmyhal, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Energy, during a press briefing following a meeting of the crisis committee that included representatives from the fuel and energy sector. Shmyhal emphasized that the minimum gas reserve required at the start of the heating season is 13.2 billion cubic meters, a benchmark established based on experiences from prior years.

Shmyhal elaborated that, according to the baseline scenario, the goal is to ensure that by the start of the heating season, underground gas storage facilities will be filled with 14.6 billion cubic meters of gas. This information was disclosed after a thorough discussion during the crisis committee meeting, where a projected balance of natural gas inflow and distribution for the 2026/2027 period was approved.

The Minister of Energy also highlighted that the minimum reserve necessary for the onset of the heating season is 13.2 billion cubic meters. This figure has been determined based on the experiences of previous heating seasons to guarantee a stable passage through winter, even in the face of low temperatures and potential massive attacks from the Russian Federation.

Shmyhal pointed out that considering the possible threats from Russia, the upcoming winter is likely to be challenging, similar to the conditions experienced last year. As a result, the forecast may be adjusted depending on how the situation develops.

"Our benchmark remains the experience of previous heating seasons: having at least 13.2 billion cubic meters of natural gas in underground storage at the start of the season. This will allow us to reliably endure the winter, even under low temperatures and massive attacks," explained the head of the Ministry of Energy.

To ensure a stable transition through the next autumn-winter period, key tasks include timely contracting of imported natural gas supplies, injecting gas into underground storage during periods of the lowest market prices, and diversifying supply routes.

Shmyhal underscored that Naftogaz of Ukraine and the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine are already actively working on reserving potential capacities for importing natural gas. Furthermore, efforts are ongoing to extend the operation of the routing products of the "Vertical Gas Corridor," which is a crucial element for ensuring Ukraine's energy security.