Mercedes-Benz has outlined a plan to cut gas consumption by as much as half, a strategy tied to the shrinking gas supply from Russia and described by Reuters through statements attributed to the company’s chief, Ola Källenius. The plan centers on a coordinated set of actions that blend efficiency improvements, a shift toward greater electricity use, adaptive temperature controls at production facilities, and a gradual substitution of gas with oil where appropriate. If the company needs to act decisively, these measures could collectively slash gas consumption by up to 50% over the course of a year, underscoring how large industrial players might respond to tightened energy markets.
On electricity use, Källenius indicated that the topic will require collaboration with electricity providers. He noted that the entire German manufacturing sector will need to adjust to new energy realities, signalling a shared responsibility among producers to optimize power consumption while maintaining output and quality. The dialogue between industry and energy suppliers is framed as a necessary alignment to ensure stability in supply and pricing during periods of gas scarcity or cost volatility.
Earlier in the week, the German federal network agency confirmed regulatory approval related to gas flow from Nord Stream, which currently represents about 19.5 percent of the pipeline’s capacity. This decision, viewed in the context of broader energy security concerns, adds another layer to the ongoing recalibration of energy use in Germany. It highlights how policy and corporate strategy intersect as manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz navigate tighter energy constraints, explore fuel substitution, and implement efficiency measures to safeguard operations and competitiveness in a changing energy landscape.