Countries in Southeastern and Eastern Europe are making steady progress on natural gas security, according to the Energy Community Secretariat’s 2026 Gas Storage Report. The report points to growing alignment with European Union energy security rules and storage requirements.
Under the Energy Community Treaty, governments are continuing efforts to secure adequate gas reserves before each winter season. They are also working to improve resilience against supply disruptions during periods of market stress. The measures are intended to reduce vulnerability to external shocks while maintaining stable energy supply across the region.
Energy Community Treaty obligations and 2025–2026 trajectories
Serbia and Ukraine are the only contracting parties with underground gas storage facilities. Both are required to meet specific storage-filling targets set for each period. The report says they surpassed their obligations for 2025 and stayed ahead of the storage trajectories for early 2026.
Serbia’s mandatory target is set at 90% of storage capacity. Ukraine’s requirement is calculated at 35% of its average annual gas consumption, reflecting its exceptionally large storage infrastructure. Data in the report show Serbia’s Banatski Dvor facility reached 58% at the beginning of February and 44% by 1 May 2026.
The report also indicates that Ukraine exceeded its interim storage benchmark over the same period. Both countries’ performance is presented as remaining ahead of early-2026 trajectory requirements.
Storage readiness in countries without domestic facilities
Among countries without domestic underground storage facilities, Moldova is highlighted for preparedness measures. The country has developed a dual reserve system combining emergency stocks reserved for crisis situations with commercial inventories maintained under storage regulations. Combined reserves exceed one-fifth of annual gas demand.
The report frames this approach as part of a strengthened energy security framework based on reserve availability. North Macedonia is also described as having advanced preparations through incorporation of EU storage legislation into national law. It has completed key risk assessment procedures as part of that process.
A planned arrangement for accessing storage capacity in neighboring Bulgaria has not yet become operational, limiting North Macedonia’s access to regional storage flexibility.
Regulatory alignment and ongoing work across the region
The report concludes that the region is gradually improving its ability to manage supply risks. It links progress to stronger regulatory frameworks, increased storage preparedness, and closer alignment with European energy security standards. Further work remains in several markets.
The focus on meeting winter readiness requirements continues across the Energy Community Treaty coverage area. Governments’ efforts include maintaining adequate reserves and improving resilience during market stress periods.
