德国天然气储备创近年新低

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the alarming decline in Germany's natural gas storage levels, which have reached a historical low, raising concerns about energy security as the country continues to resist Russian energy supplies [1][3]. Group 1: Current Storage Levels - As of January 9, 2026, Germany's gas storage facilities are filled to only 48.3%, significantly lower than previous years' levels, such as 90.1% in January 2023 and 91.8% in January 2024 [3]. - The storage levels are projected to be only 75% at the start of the heating season in November 2025, according to assessments from industry experts [3]. Group 2: Risks and Predictions - The speed of gas depletion from storage facilities has accelerated due to lower temperatures in January, with warnings that reserves could drop to a critical level of 5% by March if depletion rates remain consistent with the previous year [4]. - The INES industry association predicts that extreme cold weather in January could lead to the depletion of gas storage by mid-January, although this scenario is considered an extreme risk model [3]. Group 3: Infrastructure and Market Conditions - Current conditions of gas storage facilities are concerning, with low levels of commercial raw materials and a decrease in extractable gas, leading to infrastructure deterioration [4]. - The situation is similar to 2022, but the presence of new LNG receiving terminals in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea provides some support to the market [4]. Group 4: Government Response and Strategy - The German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy indicates that the import of liquefied natural gas has made supply logistics more flexible, shifting the reliance from traditional gas storage mechanisms [5]. - The ministry maintains a confident outlook on the continuity of Germany's gas supply, although there are recommendations for establishing emergency strategic gas reserves to address potential disruptions [6].