[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Gyumin] The European Union (EU) has proposed a plan to reduce gas demand, including a target for member states to cut gas usage by 15% by next spring. This is interpreted as a measure to prepare for the possibility of further gas supply cuts from Russia.
On the 20th (local time), the EU Commission stated in a press release that due to Russia's weaponization of gas exports, the EU faces the risk of gas supply being cut off.
According to the plan, all member states must voluntarily reduce gas demand by 15% from next month 1st until March 31st of next year.
The new regulation will also allow the Commission to declare a 'joint alert' on supply security after consulting with member states if the gas shortage situation worsens or if there is exceptionally high gas demand. In such cases, the Commission may impose mandatory gas demand reductions on all member states.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, said at a press conference held in Brussels, Belgium, on the same day, "We must address energy security at the EU level," adding, "To do this, we need to reduce gas consumption and store the saved gas in storage facilities. This is a significant demand for the entire EU but necessary to protect us."
The EU Commission stated that transitioning to renewable energy should be prioritized, but as a temporary measure, switching to fossil fuels like oil or nuclear power might be necessary. The Commission also urged member states to launch campaigns encouraging reductions in heating and cooling.
This proposal from the Commission requires approval from the member states.
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