France Gears Up for Cold Winter with Strong Gas Reserves

France is prepared for a cold winter with strong gas reserves, aided by European imports. Although prices and demand remain in check, maintaining storage and reducing residential use is advised. Potential disruptions from Ukraine could affect Eastern Europe in 2025, but not this winter.

France remains well-prepared for an extremely cold winter, thanks to solid gas reserves bolstered by imports from other European nations. Gas grid operators GRTgaz and Terega recommend continued demand-saving measures for residential consumers.

Mild winters and demand-cutting strategies have helped France manage soaring energy costs since the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022. While Eastern Europe may face challenges if Russian supplies halt in 2025, current storage buffers France against extreme temperatures this year.

With gas storage at 95% capacity and increased LNG regasification set by year's end, France is well-postured. However, careful stock management and demand moderation during early winter remain crucial, as France counts on steady gas flows to neighboring countries, including Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland.

(With inputs from agencies.)