Russia in the European energy sector

Germany's natural gas storages are filled to 100 percent of their capacity, according to a report by the Association of European Gas Infrastructure Operators (Gas Infrastructure Europe - GIE). The capacity of the facilities in Germany is reported to be at 100.03% based on preliminary data, with allowances for changes in gas volume due to temperature variations.

Europe's underground gas storage facilities are poised for the upcoming heating season with more than 99% of their capacity filled, marking a significant milestone in the region's efforts to reduce energy dependence on Russia.

High levels of gas storage, lower energy prices and new sources of fuel mean Europe is heading into a second winter with scarce Russian gas in a more comfortable position than a year ago.

Reserves of natural gas in the EU are filled to 90 percent of capacity well ahead of a November 1 target date, making it "well-prepared for winter," its energy commissioner has said.

The Bulgarian gas storage in Chiren is 90% filled with gas more than two months earlier than the deadline set by the EU to secure stocks for the winter.

Data published on the platform of the non-governmental organization Gas Infrastructure Europe on Friday showed that the target was reached on August 16, at the same time as the EU average of 90% occupancy was reached.

The Energy and Water Regulatory Commission will consider Bulgargaz's report on the price of blue fuel in April. The proposal of the public supplier is in the amount of BGN 103 per megawatt hour. This is a price that is nearly 3% lower than the one approved for March, writes Nova TV.

However, the final decision will be made on April 1.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Oct. 12 that Russia could increase the capacity of its gas exports to Turkey and eventually turn into a hub for gas supplies to Europe.

Moscow is ready to resume gas supplies to Europe via a link of the Germany-bound Nord Stream 2 pipeline under the Baltic Sea.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine more than 6 months ago has caused a dramatic spike in natural gas prices and caused repeated energy shocks in Europe. The EU has accused Moscow of using energy as a weapon, while Russia denies this and blames western sanctions for the drop in exports.

Russian gas deliveries to Europe through the Nord Stream pipeline will cease from August 31 to September 2 for "maintenance", Russian energy giant Gazprom has said, raising the prospect of energy shortages in Europe.

European gas prices soared to a new record high at the close of trading on Aug. 19 after Gazprom's announcement. 

The Canadian government says it will allow the delivery to Germany of equipment from a key Russia-Europe natural gas pipeline that has undergone maintenance _ equipment the absence of which Russia's Gazprom cited last month as a reason for more than halving the flow of gas.