In brief
IEA data shows European gas reserves at a 13‑year low, with storage 75 % full versus the EU’s 80 % target. The agency forecasts a global LNG supply dip of 3 % and a demand decline of 65 billion cubic metres, prompting fears of a shift to coal. Reports confirm severe shortages and potential market tightening through 2027.
European gas stockpiles fell to a 13‑year low as the International Energy Agency warned that Europe will enter the 2027 winter season with the lowest storage levels on record, driving up reliance on liquid natural gas.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the IEA’s latest assessment cites Europe’s gas reserves at their lowest since 2013, tightening supply and prompting a shift to LNG for seasonal demand peaks. The IEA also said that global LNG supply could dip 3 % in 2026, with a corresponding demand decline, and that the industrial gas sector in Europe is moving toward coal.
أوروبا تشهد دخول موسم التدفئة الشتوي بأدنى مستويات مخزونات الغاز الطبيعي منذ 13 سنة.
In a separate IEA note, the organization estimated that reserves could fall below 10 % of capacity by March 30, 2026 in a worst‑case scenario, adding that the steady decline in LNG storage will pressure spot prices during peak periods.
The Gazette Express confirmed that European gas storage facilities were about 75 % full at the end of October, short of the EU minimum target of 80 %, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Discrepant projections include the IEA’s specific 65 billion cubic‑metre demand decline and the forecast that industrial usage will decline enough to favour coal generation. These figures are not yet corroborated by other independent sources.
Finally, the IEA noted that the Hormuz LNG squeeze has reduced shipments from Qatari and Emirati suppliers by more than 60 billion cubic metres between March and October 2026, a detail that has not yet been confirmed elsewhere.
