Ukraine says it seeks to accumulate 14.6 bcm of natural gas ahead of next winter

Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal on Thursday said that Kyiv seeks to accumulate 14.6 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas ahead of the coming winter period.

In a statement on Telegram following a crisis committee meeting also involving representatives of fuel and energy sector companies, Shmyhal said that they approved a forecast balance of natural gas supply and distribution for the 2026-2027 heating season in the country.

“According to the baseline scenario, by the beginning of the heating season, it is planned to accumulate 14.6 billion cubic meters of gas in underground gas storage facilities,” Shmyhal said.

Noting that the forecasts determined may be adjusted in accordance with the security situation in Ukraine, Shmyhal said that experience from previous heating seasons are their reference point.

In this context, he said the minimum level of gas in underground storage prior to the start of the heating season should be 13.2 bcm.

“This will allow us to stably get through the winter even during low temperatures and massive attacks. Thus, 13.2 billion cubic meters is determined as the critically needed minimum,” Shmyhal further said.

He added that the country’s national oil and gas company Naftogaz and the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine are actively working to secure import capacities and maintain supply routes through the Vertical Gas Corridor.