The Czech Republic’s decrease in gas consumption in 2022 is a positive sign for the country’s energy efficiency goals. The country’s Energy Regulatory Office reported that gas consumption dropped by a fifth compared to the previous year, the lowest it has been in the last eight years. The drop in consumption was due to a combination of factors, including warmer weather and lower gas imports. The decrease was most significant in May, where consumption fell by a third.

The decrease in gas consumption is a result of a combination of efforts from both households and large consumers. Almost half of the savings were made by large consumers, and a quarter of the savings were from households. The reduction in gas imports by nearly 41 percent year-on-year also contributed to the decrease in consumption.

The warm weather was also a significant factor in reducing gas consumption. The temperature was approximately 0.9°C above the long-term average. The ERO stated that the lower gas consumption was the lowest in eight years and, if converted into an average temperature, it was the lowest since 2001 when the ERO started keeping statistics.

It is worth noting that the state of domestic gas storage has also improved. In December 2021, stocks were at 49.1 percent of total storage capacity, and by the end of 2022, they had almost doubled to 85.2 percent. The record was set at the beginning of winter when the storage facilities were virtually 100 percent full. As of February 22, 2023, domestic storage capacity was 62.5 percent full, compared to only 21.5 percent at the same time last year, and it rose to 13 percent during the winter season.

The increase in gas storage capacity is essential for the Czech Republic’s energy security. The country’s gas storage capacity is crucial for managing peak demand, particularly during cold winters. The increase in domestic storage capacity means that the Czech Republic is less reliant on gas imports during peak periods, reducing the risk of shortages and supply disruptions.

In conclusion, the decrease in gas consumption in the Czech Republic is a positive sign for the country’s energy efficiency goals. The efforts from households and large consumers, combined with the warm weather and lower gas imports, have contributed to the reduction in gas consumption. The increase in domestic gas storage capacity is also a positive development for the country’s energy security.

Article by Prague Forum