The emergence of measures to address the looming energy crisis in Germany began to take shape as early as 2021, according to remarks attributed to the head of the state government, Olaf Scholz.
Scholz indicated that the warning signs became clearer last year when gas storage facilities held by a major Russian supplier remained underfilled. Rather than flowing through established routes like the Yamal – Europe corridor via Belarus and Poland, the gas was gradually drawn from stockpiles, underscoring a shift in the supply dynamic.
He explained that this realization prompted urgent questions about resilience, and when he took office as Chancellor in December, he asked the relevant departments to map out contingency plans for potential gas shortfalls. This moment served as a catalyst for accelerating investments in alternative energy infrastructure, with a focus on liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage and import capabilities, long before the full-scale conflict intensified. Scholz emphasized that the goal was to build a sturdier framework capable of absorbing shocks in energy supply.
In his view, diversifying alliances is central to safeguarding Germany and its neighbors as energy needs evolve. He highlighted ongoing efforts to broaden cooperation with Norway, aiming to secure reliable gas supplies and bolster energy autonomy. The emphasis is on creating a robust energy security strategy that can withstand fluctuations in global markets and reduce dependence on single suppliers. (Citation: News report)