Imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) have picked up speed in recent months, reaching a new high following the launch of the first terminal in Wilhelmshaven in December 2022. In mid-June, a total of three terawatt hours of natural gas were fed into the German grid within a week, roughly the same amount as a major German city consumes annually.

The controversial and often criticised terminal in Mukran on the island of Rügen in particular is now receiving significantly more LNG than at the beginning of the year. Data from the Federal Network Agency shows that over 10 terawatt hours of natural gas were fed in there in the second quarter, significantly more than at the other German LNG terminals. According to analysts, this is mainly due to the location advantage for Rügen, particularly for Central Europe and for supplying the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Austria, which have been receiving less gas from Russia since January. The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has brought Europe closer together in terms of gas supply.

In addition to the increase in demand, technical factors also played a role: following further expansions, the terminals are now fully operational for the first time. There is also a seasonal effect, as gas is typically slightly cheaper in summer than in winter because demand is higher in winter. It is therefore attractive for companies to buy and store gas in summer and use it in winter.

According to the Federal Network Agency, the current fill level of German gas storage facilities on 13 September 2025 is around 75 %. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) has lifted the alert level of the gas emergency plan in Germany, which has been in force since 23 June 2022. The early warning level has been in force again since 1 July 2025. By 1 November, the gas storage facilities should be filled to 80 %.

kdk, NDR