Slovenia ensures reliable gas supply for winter 2023
- Slovenia has diversified its gas supply routes, increasing imports from Algeria and establishing future cooperation with Azerbaijan.
- The country is participating in the EU common market and joint gas procurement mechanisms to secure additional supplies.
- Minister Bojan Kumer assures that Slovenia is well-prepared for winter, and the expected disruption of Russian gas transit will not affect supply reliability or prices.
Slovenia is preparing for the winter gas supply, ensuring reliability and safety despite the anticipated cessation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine. The Slovenian Minister of Environment, Climate and Energy, Bojan Kumer, expressed confidence in the country's readiness, stating that Slovenia has diversified its gas supply routes significantly. This includes increased pipeline gas supply from Algeria, which can cover approximately 45% of annual needs, and potential future supplies from Azerbaijan, expected to meet 10-30% of needs by 2025. Slovenia also relies on the EU common market for additional gas and participates in a joint gas procurement mechanism. Kumer reassured that local gas suppliers are prepared, and no intervention from the ministry is necessary. The expected disruption in Russian gas transit is not anticipated to impact Slovenia's gas prices or supply reliability, reflecting the country's proactive measures in securing its energy needs.