EU Expands Joint Gas Buying to Strengthen Energy Security
New Round of Gas Purchases Begins
On March 12, 2025, the European Commission kicked off another round of joint gas buying through the Aggregate EU platform. This initiative aims to make Europe’s energy supply more stable and predictable.
How the Process Works
EU companies and Energy Community members can pool their gas demand for multiple six-month periods between July 2025 and October 2030. By combining their requests, they can negotiate better deals with international suppliers. Buyers must submit their demand by March 17. After that, the EU will collect these requests and open bidding for suppliers from March 18 to 21. Once matches are made, individual companies will finalize their contracts directly with suppliers.
EU Commissioner Highlights the Benefits
Dan Jørgensen, the EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, emphasized that buying together gives companies access to more stable and competitive offers. He added that until Europe fully transitions to clean energy, securing reliable gas supplies will be crucial for economic stability.
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Reducing Dependence on Russian Gas
The EU launched the Aggregate EU platform in April 2023 to diversify its energy sources and reduce reliance on Russian gas. The first mid-term round in February 2024 was highly successful, with supplier offers almost tripling demand. Since its launch, the platform has matched 42 billion cubic meters of gas demand with supplier offers.
Keeping Prices Stable and Energy Secure
By working together, EU countries can avoid energy shortages and stabilize prices for businesses and households. The plan also helps prevent extreme price fluctuations and supports the EU’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Future Expansion Plans
The EU wants to expand this joint buying system beyond gas. It plans to launch hydrogen purchasing in September 2025, followed by critical raw materials in the third quarter. A permanent system for joint purchasing is also in the works.
Challenges and Criticism
Not everyone supports this approach. Some technology groups and commodity traders worry that centralizing purchases could create too much bureaucracy. Others believe the EU could become a direct competitor in the market, disrupting existing trade practices.
Despite these concerns, the EU remains focused on securing affordable and reliable energy for the future.
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