His emergency plan went into effect on Tuesday. European Union per natural gaswhich asks the member states of the block to reduce its use and take measures to increase stocks in anticipation of winter.

The plan aims to solve shortage of supplies which will occur if Russia stop export due to tension around his invasion of Ukraine.

Flows of natural gas from Russia to the EU have already declined significantly, while many argue that Russia has turned the issue of energy supply into a “weapon”.

What does the plan include?

The plan is requested from EU member states. voluntary reduction of natural gas consumption by 15% from August 1 to March 31 compared to the average consumption for the same period over the past five years.

In the context of a plan approved by EU energy ministers. at the end of July, gas saving targets could become mandatory in the event of a supply emergency.

However, there are many exceptions for certain countries and sectors, and more than 15 member states, representing at least 65% of the bloc’s total population, will need to give their consent for the targets to become mandatory.

Spain and Italy are among the countries exempt from the 15% consumption reduction target.

The plan aims to save a total of 45 billion cubic meters of natural gas. According to the European Commission, Germany, which uses natural gas in very large volumes, should save about 10 billion cubic meters.

What does the German side say?

According to Klaus Muller, head of the federal agency for electricity, natural gas, rail networks, mail and telecommunications, the plan could put an end to the recent increase in natural gas prices or even lead to their decline.

“If all the countries in Europe save natural gas, it could stabilize its price, even bring it down and help ensure sufficient stocks for the fall and winter,” Miller said.

Gas prices in Germany are more than double what they were at the end of last year.

From 1 October, prices in Germany will rise again and consumers will have to pay a “solidarity fee” of up to 0.05 euros per kilowatt hour. This money is used to support gas importers who were forced to buy more expensive gas outside of Russia.

The contingency plan will be in effect for one year.

^{Source: Deutsche Welle.}