Europe heads into winter with low gas stocks, Lithuania says its supply remains safe

As winter approaches, gas storage across the European Union is only about 71% full, falling short of the European Commission's revised 80% target and prompting worries about supply security and price spikes. Lithuania, which uses the Inčukalns underground depot shared with the Baltic states and Finland, reports the facility is roughly 48% full but claims one outlet volume meets household needs and system security for the coldest period.

Energy regulators cite the country's LNG terminal at Klaipėda and an interconnection with Poland, plus a recent US gas supply agreement, as additional safeguards. Energy Minister Lukas Savickas says Lithuania will not boost underground storage at any cost, aiming to keep prices competitive. Across Europe, prices have risen after geopolitical tensions, and the EU is competing with Asian buyers for LNG while urging lower consumption. The Commission plans to release a winter preparedness assessment in early October and is working on measures to curb consumer energy costs.