-- The European Commission's Energy Union Task Force Security on Friday confirmed that the region does not face any immediate oil and gas supply risks, although the availability of jet fuel remains a major concern.
The Task Force met on Friday to review the energy security situation in the EU in the backdrop of the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has resulted in significant energy supply shocks.
The Task Force reaffirmed the conclusion of the member state senior officials and the commission, who met earlier last week. The EU refineries were receiving a stable supply of crude oil and there was no immediate need for additional stock releases at the moment, according to a statement issued by the EC's Directorate-General for Energy.
"Nevertheless, prolonged disruptions in Middle East oil production and tanker traffic could pose longer-term risks. Jet fuel remains the primary concern, given that EU refineries cover around 70% of the EU's consumption, with the remainder reliant on imports," the statement added.
The task force discussed the advantages of having an extended gas storage injection season as a means to prevent last-minute congestion and price spikes. They also appreciated a letter from Commissioner Dan Jorgensen to member countries urging them to use flexibility provisions under the Gas Storage Regulation and consider reaching the 80% storage target earlier in the filling season to provide greater market certainty.
"Finally, the Task Force welcomed and called for an acceleration of ongoing work to provide clear Commission recommendations on the implementation of EU Methane Regulation, with a focus on security of supply and legal certainty, notably with respect to penalties and compliance solutions, as agreed by Energy Ministers in December 2025," the statement added.
The two-week ceasefire in the Iran war has helped stabilize energy prices, but the situation remains "volatile and uncertain" overall, the statement added.