Germany's gas production in numbers
Katherina Reiche, Germany's Economy minister is in Saudi Arabia seeking closer ties with the country on energy. Berlin is looking to diversify this sector as its dependence on U.S. Liquefied Natural Gas grows.
Why is?GAS Supply a Problem in Germany?
Germany was dependent on Russia to supply most of its natural gas for decades. This provided Europe's largest economy with a relatively cheap source, which was a major advantage for industry.
The end of the relationship with Russia has forced Germany, which has only lignite as its main fossil fuel source, to look for more expensive alternatives.
WHERE DOES GERMAN GET ITS GAS FROM?
According to the German energy regulator, Germany will import 1.031 terawatt-hours (TWh), or pipeline gas and LNG, in 2025. This is an increase of more than 16% year-on-year. The top suppliers are Norway (44%), the Netherlands (24%), and Belgium (21%).
The United States accounted for 96% of the LNG terminals in the country.
IS IT ABLE TO CONSUME ALL Imports?
No. German gas consumption is expected to rise 2.2% by 2025, reaching 864 TWh. Industry will account for 60% of the demand. The consumption was down by 13.5% compared to the average of?2018-2021.
The majority of the 221 TWh exported went to Austria (46%), Czech Republic (26%), and Switzerland (13%).
Are?LOW GAS STOCK LEVELS a Problem?
According to Gas Infrastructure Europe, the German gas storage levels are less than one third. This is far lower than 56% of a year earlier and the average EU level of 41%.
The energy regulator in the country says that the current level is adequate, even though it's lower. (Reporting and editing by Louise Heavens, Christoph Steitz)
(source: Reuters)