The European Commissioner for Energy called on the EU to strengthen preparations for winter due to rising energy prices

The consequences of the conflict in the Middle East provoked a sharp increase in energy prices in Europe. Brussels called for measures to reduce gas and electricity consumption, according to a letter from European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jorgensen to relevant EU ministers, Reuters reports.

“We are faced with a [energy] price crisis, which is associated with a supply crisis,” the official said. He suggested that EU countries step up preparations for winter - maintain the pumping of gas into storage facilities or reduce demand for gas and electricity “as much as necessary.”

At the same time, Jorgensen says that Europe is “better prepared now” for energy challenges this year than in winter 2021.