The European Commission developed an action plan to reduce gas use in Europe and support the region’s economies. The plan has been proposed amid the local authorities’ fear that Moscow may completely disrupt gas deliveries, putting energy security at high risk. According to the official document, bloc-wide decisions can ensure energy resilience during the upcoming winter if Russia suspends gas imports to the EU. Experts note that if this occurs in July, underground gas storages can be filled up to 71% of capacity by early November. This is below the crucial level of 80%. The risks can be reduced only if supplies continue until October. “The Plan focuses on substitution of gas with other fuels, and overall energy savings in all sectors. It aims to safeguard supply to households and essential users like hospitals, but also industries that are decisive for the provision of essential products and services to the economy, and for EU supply chains and competitiveness,” the document explains. Along with the gas substitution and saving fuel for winter, the EC provides the bloc countries with guidelines to reduce energy consumption for heating and air conditioning. In addition, the plan proposes obligatory consumption limits in case of a severe emergency.
