EU must cut gas consumption by 15% while Slovakia may increase it by 5%

EU energy ministers approved a mechanism for cutting natural gas consumption from August to March by 15% compared to the 5-year average. The mechanism will change from voluntary to mandatory only after five EU countries declare a state of emergency. Slovakia negotiated several exemptions―the 15% cut will not impact the industry, cuts will be set in comparison with 2021 and not 2017-21, and gas reserves will be taken into account (Slovakia currently has 50% of its annual gas consumption in storage facilities). The exemptions mean that even if the mechanism is imposed, Slovakia can use 5% more gas compared to the 5-year average. The EU will make sure its sanctions regime will keep Ukraine supplied with gas.

(pravda.sk)