The German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) has published its gas supply preliminary figures for 2023, which show that Germany's gas imports fell by nearly 33% decrease compared to 2022. The largest quantities came from Norway (43%), the Netherlands (26%) and Belgium (22%). Gas exports to neighbouring countries have also declined significantly compared to the previous year (-63% compared to 2022). The largest share was exported to the Czech Republic (42%), followed by the Netherlands (19%) and Austria (18%).
German LNG terminals accounted for about 7% of total German gas imports in 2023. The LNG terminal in Wilhelmshaven was the first German terminal to start operations in December 2022. This was followed by the terminals in Lubmin in January 2023 and Brunsbüttel in March 2023. The LNG terminal in Stade was the fourth German terminal to go into operation in December 2023. The first gas flows are expected there in February 2024.
Compared to 2022, gas consumption fell by 5% overall. Around 41% of total German gas consumption came from households and businesses, and 59% from industry. In addition, gas prices have fallen significantly again in 2023 compared to the previous year. The average day-ahead price level in 2023 was €41/MWh. In 2022, it was significantly higher at an average of over €127/MWh.