European Union (EU) managed to fill up its gas storage facilities before the winter season, even though Russia stopped supplying fuel in full, Kommersant reported, referring to the data of network agencies in different countries.

Germany managed to fill its storage facilities to 99,54%, France - to 99,9%, Italy - 95,5%. And these results were achieved due to the continuing warm weather in the region and reduction of gas consumption. All this allows to comfortably survive the forthcoming heating season.

According to the newspaper, to meet the demand the European countries had to buy gas at a higher price. At the same time Germany does not have its own infrastructure for receiving LNG, so purchases are made under long-term contracts through terminals in other countries. Market participants previously doubted that Germany would be able to fill its storage facilities at least 80% even by November, but savings in consumption have allowed to reach almost 100% of its storage capacity by early November.

Market experts believe that Germany will be able to safely survive this heating season if there are no unusual weather anomalies. If the weather is comfortable even the supply disruptions will not cause any problems. However, the question of preparation for the next winter season still remains, and the situation in the energy market continues to hold tension.