EU seeks 15% cut in gas use on Russian supply squeeze

The European Union proposed that the bloc cut its natural gas consumption by 15 per cent over the next eight months in a plan that would affect all households, power producers and industry.

The move reflects mounting concern that Russia will halt gas exports to the region in retaliation for sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine. A cutoff would threaten EU efforts to replenish stockpiles ahead of winter, potentially jeopardizing security of supply to key sectors and crippling the region’s economy well into next year.

The EU’s suggested demand reductions equate roughly to the annual gas consumption of France, though at this stage remain voluntary. Measures put forward by the European Commission on Wednesday include a mandatory trigger should the supply situation deteriorate significantly.

“The European Union faces the risk of further gas-supply cuts from Russia due to the Kremlin’s weaponization of gas exports,” the European Commission said in a statement. “Taking action now can reduce both the risk and the costs for Europe in case of further or full disruption.”