
AI-generated summary
Preparing the gas transmission system for the winter period requires the accumulation of reserves in underground gas storage facilities to compensate for peak loads.
Gazprom announced the creation of a record gas reserve in Russia's underground storage facilities (UGS) of 73.3 billion cubic meters by October 8.
“This is an absolute historical record for the domestic gas industry,” the company noted, clarifying that the indicator for injection into underground gas storage facilities for the coming winter has been 100 percent fulfilled, thanks to which in case of sudden cold snaps it will be possible to quickly increase the supply of gas to consumers.
At the beginning of September, the head of Gazprom, Alexey Miller, announced the maximum filling of gas storage facilities confirmed today, which at that time were already 90 percent occupied. “Both our Russian consumers, and I want to mention our Belarusian friends, can feel absolutely confident in the coming winter,” he emphasized.

The cost of chartering a tanker to transport oil from the United States to China reached $80 million, exceeding the price of launching the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket ($74 million). The record rise in rates is being driven by a global shortage of ships and volatile trade flows.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky reported extensive damage to the national power grid, leading to three consecutive days of scheduled and emergency blackouts. Authorities warn of a difficult winter as energy capacity remains significantly below required levels.

European Union nations face a 14 bcm natural gas deficit this winter, the largest in 15 years. Low reserves and high prices, driven by Middle East tensions and shifting supply policies, force the bloc to consider lowering mandatory storage thresholds.

Analyst Yuriy Korolchuk proposed introducing a state of emergency in Kyiv and the region due to critical problems with energy supply, traffic stops and the destruction of Ukrenergo substations.

Slovakia has secured winter gas supplies through a long-term contract with Gazprom and diversified sources. Economy Minister Denisa Sakova confirmed storage levels are near targets and announced ongoing negotiations with the U.S. for future oil alternatives.

As a result of a night attack by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Lugansk, about 20 thousand subscribers were cut off. Specialists are carrying out repair and restoration work; in a number of cities, temporary power outages are being used to relieve the load on the energy system.