In the context of the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, the German government is preparing for a significant deterioration in gas supplies. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) called for the early warning level of the gas emergency plan on Wednesday in Berlin. This is for precautionary purposes. Security of supply remains guaranteed. According to the emergency plan, there are three levels of crisis.
In an emergency, domestic customers would be particularly protected. “There are currently no supply bottlenecks,” explained Habeck. “However, we must increase precautionary measures to be prepared in the event of an escalation by Russia.” A crisis team convened when the early warning level was declared. “The crisis team analyzes and assesses the supply situation so that – if necessary – further measures can be taken to increase security of supply. The federal government is doing everything it can to continue to ensure security of supply in Germany. “
“Reduce consumption as much as possible”
According to the ministry, the global supply of all German gas consumers is still guaranteed. “However, from now on all gas consumers – from companies to individuals – are also obliged to reduce their consumption as much as possible.”
According to the ministry, the early warning level means that a crisis team will meet at the Ministry of Economy, made up of authorities and energy providers. Gas suppliers and pipeline operators are required to regularly assess the situation for the German government. The state has not yet intervened. Gas traders and suppliers, transmission and distribution system operators are taking “market-based” measures to maintain gas supply: According to the ministry, this includes using flexibilities on the procurement side, using of gas storage and the optimization of cargo flows. (apa)