Countries in Southeastern and Eastern Europe are making steady progress in strengthening natural gas security, according to the Energy Community Secretariat’s 2026 Gas Storage Report, which highlights growing alignment with European Union energy security rules and storage requirements.
The report notes that governments covered by the Energy Community Treaty are continuing efforts to ensure adequate gas reserves before each winter season and to improve resilience against supply disruptions during periods of market stress. These measures are aimed at reducing vulnerability to external shocks and maintaining stable energy supply across the region.
Serbia and Ukraine, the only contracting parties with underground gas storage facilities, are required to meet specific storage-filling targets. Both countries surpassed their obligations for 2025 and remained ahead of the storage trajectories established for early 2026. Serbia’s mandatory target is set at 90% of storage capacity, while Ukraine’s requirement is calculated at 35% of its average annual gas consumption due to its exceptionally large storage infrastructure. Data included in the report show that Serbia’s Banatski Dvor facility reached storage levels of 58% at the beginning of February and 44% by 1 May 2026. Ukraine also exceeded its interim storage benchmark for the same period.
Among countries without domestic storage facilities, Moldova is highlighted as a leading example of preparedness. The country has developed a dual reserve system consisting of emergency stocks reserved for crisis situations and commercial inventories maintained under storage regulations. Combined reserves exceeded one-fifth of annual gas demand, reflecting a strengthened energy security framework.
North Macedonia has also advanced its preparations by incorporating EU storage legislation into national law and completing key risk assessment procedures. However, a planned arrangement for accessing storage capacity in neighboring Bulgaria has not yet become operational, which limits its access to regional storage flexibility.
The report concludes that the region is gradually improving its ability to manage supply risks through stronger regulatory frameworks, increased storage preparedness, and closer alignment with European energy security standards, although further work remains in several markets.
