No 'early warning' for gas supply in Belgium, but situation is serious
Belgium does not have to declare an "early warning" about its gas supply today, but that does not mean the situation is not serious, the cabinet of Belgian Federal Minister of Energy Tinne Van der Straeten (Groen, Flemish greens) stated on Thursday in a reaction to the German decision to declare the second phase of the national natural gas emergency plan.
Compared to many other European countries, Germany is very dependent on Russian gas. Before the war, more than half of German gas imports came from Russia. Belgium is in permanent contact with its neighbours and is closely following the impact on Belgium, stresses the Van der Straeten cabinet. Last weekend, Belgium was informed about the possibility of the second phase in Germany. Belgium was also informed of the plans of the Netherlands, which issued an 'early warning' on Monday.
The situation in Belgium is being closely monitored. This analysis shows that there are currently no elements to issue an early warning. Belgium has the advantage of having little Russian gas in its network. Moreover, the country has an important gateway for natural gas with the port of Zeebrugge.
The situation in Belgium is being closely monitored. This analysis shows that there are currently no elements to issue an early warning. Belgium has the advantage of having little Russian gas in its network. Moreover, the country has an important gateway for natural gas with the port of Zeebrugge.
But the fact that no early warning has been issued does not mean that the situation is not serious. The risk of prices rising and staying high is real.
"Energy is being used as a weapon and in light of the energy war, it is all the more important to be prepared for all scenarios. It is therefore essential to prepare on all fronts together with our neighbours", the cabinet stated.
(KOR)
A Luminus gas plant in Seraing, Belgium © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND