Mechanical Engineering Association VDMA Warns of Gas Shortage in Coming Winter

Reaction from the Ministry of Economic Affairs

The VDMA is one of the most influential industry associations in Germany. Its warnings have repeatedly triggered political debates on energy policy in the past, for example following the loss of Russian gas supplies from 2022.

According to industry sources, storage levels are lower than in previous years. At the same time, Germany continues to be considered particularly vulnerable to supply bottlenecks, as the industrial location has an above-average level of gas consumption.

Brodtmann is calling for binding instruments to cushion a possible shortage situation. In the association's view, these also include provisions on which companies should be supplied first in an emergency and how production losses can be cushioned.

Background: Gas Storage and Industry

According to its own information, the association represents more than 3,600 member companies and is thus one of the largest industrial interest groups in Europe. A broad majority of the sector depends on a stable gas supply, according to the VDMA's assessment.

The debate comes at a time when the federal government is realigning its energy policy. Alongside the expansion of renewable energies, natural gas remains an important transitional area for the foreseeable future, particularly for energy-intensive industry.

From the association's Frankfurt environment, the mood in the sector was described as tense. Many companies were already planning scenarios for the event of winter restrictions and were expecting rising costs.

Outlook: What Happens Next?

The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that security of supply was the top priority. It was coordinating closely with European partners and continuously monitoring storage levels and the market situation.

The VDMA announced that it would continue to monitor developments over the coming weeks and, if necessary, address the public again. A statement from the energy association BDEW was not initially available.

The warning from Frankfurt comes amid the ongoing filling of storage facilities. Observers also see the move as an attempt to reignite the political debate on industrial prices and energy costs.