Politicians are also relying on the import of liquid natural gas (LNG) to supply Germany with energy. Will the delivery quantities be large enough?
The Federal Ministry of Economics has dampened fears that ship capacities for importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) might not be sufficient in the coming months.
Information from the exchange with international gas traders suggested that “the LNG deliveries, including the necessary transports to Germany and to LNG landing terminals in neighboring EU countries, are secured”. This was explained by a ministry spokeswoman on Wednesday on request.
The “Bild” newspaper, citing assessments by shipowners and economists, had reported that there were doubts as to whether the necessary volume of deliveries was guaranteed. Because Germany does not have its own gas tankers that are suitable for long distances. In addition, there are contractual obligations for the existing ships with other countries.
Short-term LNG purchases
From the department of Economics and Climate Protection Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) it said: “It does not matter that it is a German tanker, because it is an international market.” Contractually unbound LNG is also currently arriving. This is from short-term purchases. The raw material is intended to replace pipeline gas and thus reduce dependence on Russian energy. A stop to deliveries from Russia is also considered possible.
With a view to concerns that the planned German terminals could also not be sufficient, the ministry emphasized: “The use in Wilhelmshaven is planned for the end of the year, in Brunsbüttel from the beginning of 2023.” In total, the federal government has already chartered four initially floating LNG systems. The Düsseldorf-based energy group Uniper has now received approval for its construction work on the first.
