Faced with concerns about gas supplies from Russia, the European Commission and EU member states have moved quickly to bolster resilience. They are using contingency plans to avoid shortages, while encouraging citizens to take practical steps to reduce demand. The idea is not to promise instant magic or to end Europe’s gas dependence with a single policy move, but every small effort matters. As one senior analyst noted, the little actions add up and can stretch storage and supply until winter. The message: conserve where possible and rely on storage capacity to smooth the path ahead.
2. What does the natural gas needed in winter have to do with today’s energy use?
Raising bedroom temperatures or cooling rooms more than necessary increases electricity demand. In Spain, roughly 20% of electricity is produced from natural gas. As much as possible, reducing energy use lowers the need for gas, since renewable energy and nuclear power take priority when they are available and gas is used only when these sources are insufficient. Economists emphasize that Spain and the rest of Europe are replenishing storage ahead of October 1 to withstand a potential Russian supply disruption this winter. Spain currently reports one of Europe’s higher underground storage levels, around 73.2%, with certain LNG tanks at about 84% capacity, according to national energy data.
3. To what extent can consumer actions help?
Every action counts. Lowering car usage, for example, reduces oil consumption and, indirectly, gas demand associated with refining and transport. While individual impact in Spain may feel limited, it remains a crucial piece of the overall effort. In a scenario where demand falls across the economy, researchers estimate that a 10% reduction in energy use could be achieved by coordinating efforts across households and businesses. Even if the direct personal savings seem modest, there is a meaningful economic effect: lower energy bills in the short term and additional LNG that could be redirected to other countries if needed, such as Germany. The point is that small, collective behavior changes can help ease the pressure on gas supplies.
4. Is there infrastructure to export gas to other countries?
One central element of contingency planning is identifying solidarity measures between EU countries. When a member state reduces its own demand even slightly, LNG markets respond. A stressed LNG market allows ships to be redirected to where they are most needed. In addition, discussions have circulated about extending energy cooperation with neighboring states. One idea mentioned publicly is a potential LNG link between major hubs, creating a sea-based bridge to move gas from one country to another when markets tighten. This type of cooperation is meant to increase flexibility during times of stress and help countries maintain steady supplies.
5. Are there measures beyond daily savings?
Experts stress that Spain needs certainty and short-term reforms to reduce dependence on external suppliers. Beyond reducing consumption, there are long-term steps such as upgrading heating systems to more efficient models, replacing outdated radiators, or adopting self-consumption where feasible. These measures can help households use less gas while also lowering winter expenses. The overarching goal is to secure a stable winter supply by combining prudent behavior with structural improvements that reduce overall energy demand.