German reports have warned of the potential depletion of gas supplies in some factories and companies due to Russia's decision to reduce gas imports amid tensions between Moscow and European countries following the Ukrainian crisis. Furthermore, the government confirmed the activation of the country's gas emergency plan, while it continues to make significant efforts to secure alternative sources, as the likelihood of a severe shortage in the required quantities rises in the coming months, which will affect vital sectors in the country, particularly industry and production.
Additionally, German politician Hussein Khader, Vice President of the Immigration Secretariat for the Social Democratic Party of Germany, revealed that the government's emergency plan includes three levels: the first is early warning, the second is alert, and the third is emergency. He noted that the first phase of the plan began in March.
Switzerland: The Swiss government has also announced plans to address a potential natural gas shortage this winter and stated that it may resort to rationing if it turns out that other measures are insufficient. In March, the Swiss government decided to create a gas reserve for the 2022-2023 winter season, and the gas industry and authorities are preparing to implement it.
Switzerland, which has no sea access, obtains gas through trading centers in neighboring EU countries; therefore, supply disruptions will impact it. It is worth noting that the demand for gas in Switzerland is relatively low, covering about 15% of total energy consumption. Furthermore, the government reported that about 42% of the gas is used for heating homes, while the remainder goes to the industrial, service, and transport sectors.
