Klaus Müller, president of Germany's Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), has pushed back against growing concerns over the country's current gas storage levels.
Speaking to newspapers of the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND), Müller acknowledged that the desire to see full storage facilities by mid-May is emotionally understandable, but called it neither economically nor physically necessary.
Müller pointed to the significant steps Germany has taken since Russia's invasion of Ukraine to diversify its energy supply. A central element of this strategy has been the construction and commissioning of four liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals along the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts.
According to Müller, these terminals already played a major role during the previous winter heating season.
While gas storage remains important, the agency chief emphasized that the intense focus on storage levels seen in 2022 and 2023 is no longer warranted given the broader supply infrastructure now in place.
Müller acknowledged that the current geopolitical situation involving Iran is adding complexity for gas traders. However, he noted that gas has continued to flow into storage despite these challenges.
According to Müller, Germany's major gas storage facilities can be filled within approximately 30 days.
He urged calm, stating plainly that there is no need for hasty action.
Klaus Müller has led the Bundesnetzagentur since March 2022 and has been a key figure in managing Germany's energy transition away from Russian pipeline gas.
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