EU Plans to Reduce Gas Consumption for Winter Heating

The European Union is set to propose an agreement to its member states that includes a voluntary reduction of natural gas consumption by 15% starting next month. This information has been reported by Bloomberg, citing sources.

According to the agency's data, concerns about the potential complete cessation of supplies from Russia have prompted this decision. Agency sources claim that the EU is considering possible actions if the resumption of natural gas supplies through the 'Nord Stream' pipeline, which has been suspended for planned repairs from July 11 to 21, does not occur.

On Wednesday, July 20, the European Commission (EC) is expected to unveil a plan titled 'Save Gas for a Safe Winter,' which will include recommendations for reducing energy costs for heating and cooling, as reported by Bloomberg. In the case of a cold winter, the GDP of the European Union could shrink by 1.5%, according to estimates from the EC. The agency notes that EU authorities also want to ensure the right for countries to enforce mandatory reductions in gas consumption, although this measure must be approved by EU member states, a significant portion of which is not in agreement with it.