Romania has cut underground gas storage injections and reduced exports toward Hungary following a temporary interruption to most imported supply linked to pipeline-related works in Bulgaria. Storage injection rates have fallen to about 9.8 million cubic metres per day, compared with a typical 12-13 million cubic metres. Flows toward Hungary have dropped from roughly 7.7 million to 3.4 million cubic metres per day.
Bulgaria connection work behind import disruption
The disruption is expected to continue through the week as operators in Bulgaria complete connection work tied to an expansion of upstream pipeline capacity from 5 bcm to 10 bcm per year. During the same period, Romania has increased reliance on domestic production and temporarily shifted into a net export position. The change affects cross-border flows while the Bulgarian works are carried out.
Flows to Hungary and Moldova amid reduced injections
Exports toward Hungary have been reduced alongside the lower injection pace, with flows falling to about 3.4 million cubic metres per day. Supplies toward Moldova remain around 2.8 million cubic metres per day, including transit gas entering Romania from Bulgaria and additional volumes supplied from Romanian production. The figures indicate that regional deliveries continue despite the broader import interruption.
Storage level and outlook for winter security
The temporary interruption coincides with Romanian storage at around 80% full, equivalent to approximately 3.17 bcm of usable gas. Even with slower injections, storage is still expected to move above 90% by the end of the injection season on Oct. 31. This is expected to limit the immediate impact on winter supply security.
