Algeria regained the lead as Spain’s top source of natural gas in September, maintaining its position after months of being the primary supplier. The shift left the United States behind as a demand source since January and spotlighted Europe’s energy dynamic in a volatile market.
Data from the latest Enagás Statistical Bulletin shows Algeria delivering 8,931 GWh of natural gas in September, accounting for 25.4% of Spain’s total supply. Of this, 7,962 GWh arrived via Medgaz, the submarine pipeline, while 969 GWh entered as LNG cargoes by tanker.
Spain sourced 6,012 GWh from the United States in September, representing 17.1% of the total supply. Yet, the American volume remains the largest single contributor for the year to date, reaching 102,694 GWh and representing 30.5% of Spain’s total gas imports for the year so far.
In a broader look at the regional energy picture, Algeria has historically been the dominant gas supplier to Spain, though recent quarters have shown increased diversification and shifts in contract terms and delivery modes. A succession of price negotiations and contract adjustments has influenced volumes supplied in 2022 and into 2023, reflecting the evolving relations between suppliers, utilities, and the state-controlled operators involved in this energy corridor.
Meanwhile, a review of price terms tied to these contracts indicated ongoing discussions between Naturgy and Sonatrach over 2023 prices and the volumes affected, signaling continued negotiations about the contractual framework that governs gas deliveries from Algeria to Spain.
As of the year to date, total imports place the United States in a strong position as a supplier to Spain, with cumulative volumes totaling over 82,000 GWh. The breakdown shows 77,146 GWh delivered by pipelines and 5,447 GWh in LNG form, highlighting a mixed delivery approach that Spain relies on to balance its energy needs.
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Algeria has long been Spain’s main gas partner, yet diplomatic tensions and strategic recalibrations have influenced supply patterns. Earlier concerns around regional energy security and environmental considerations have influenced a shift in sourcing strategies and the approach to long-term supply contracts as Spain seeks a reliable and diversified energy mix.
On a related front, the gas market underwent adjustments as Naturgy and Sonatrach reviewed the pricing framework for contracts set to take effect from January 1, 2023. These negotiations aimed to align contract prices with evolving market conditions while ensuring steady gas delivery to meet domestic demand.
For the year, Spain’s gas imports from Algeria remained significant but were part of a broader trend toward diversification. Total imports for the period reached a substantial level, driven by a combination of Medgaz deliveries and LNG shipments, with LNG contributing a meaningful share through tanker arrivals and regasification capacity within Spanish energy hubs.
In a wider energy context, the year highlighted the interplay between supplier choices and the capacity of Spain to absorb gas via different modalities. The balance between pipeline gas and LNG shipments continued to define Spain’s import strategy, shaping how gas flows respond to seasonal demand and global market conditions.
Demand patterns in September showed shifts across regions and fuels
Overall gas demand in September reflected sectoral dynamics, with variations in the electricity and traditional gas use. The year’s trajectory pointed to ongoing adjustments in consumption and infrastructure utilization as Spain navigates energy security concerns and price volatility.
Looking at the broader picture, September saw substantial activity in ship unloading for regasification, signaling robust use of LNG infrastructure. The regasification plants processed a notable volume of gas, underscoring the importance of LNG in supplementing pipeline supplies as Spain maintains flexibility in meeting demand across the year.
Seasonal demand and regional shifts in gas consumption
In September, regional demand patterns showed fluctuations across markets. Some areas experienced slower growth or declines compared to the same month in the previous year, while others benefited from increased electricity generation and fuel-switching dynamics that influenced gas use. These trends reflect the ongoing evolution of Spain’s energy mix in the face of changing supply sources and price signals.
As the year progressed, total gas intake continued to adapt, with a mix of pipeline and LNG deliveries shaping the national balance. The overall picture highlighted a market focused on resilience, diversification, and the ability to respond to external shocks through flexible procurement and storage strategies.
In sum, Spain’s natural gas landscape in September showcased Algeria’s enduring role, the United States as a major supplier, and the broader push toward diversified, secure energy sourcing. The conversation around MidCat and regional diversification continued to influence policy and commercial discussions among key players in the European energy arena.