The ministry noted that domestic gas consumption fell 17% last year because of the mild winter, government measures to cut back on gas use, and more considered energy use by consumers. Gas stores are still over 45% full as the end of the heating season approaches and remain at levels sufficient to cover almost three-fourths of annual household consumption, it added.
In spite of the favorable tendencies, the ministry said the protracted war and European Union sanctions create a risk of another rise in prices, potentially hindering a build-up of inventories.
For that reason, the government decided to maintain security and special reserves, easing preparations for the coming winter, it added.