Naftogaz of Ukraine launches gas imports amid critical fuel levels

Naftogaz of Ukraine has started importing natural gas due to critically low fuel reserves in the country’s storage facilities.

As of January 31, 2025, the company has imported 100 million cubic meters of gas to address the immediate shortage, Caliber.Az reports citing Ukrainian version of Forbes.

However, experts warn that for the uninterrupted continuation of the heating season, Ukraine may need to import up to ten times this amount.

“We are closely monitoring gas reserves, which will be sufficient to ensure a stable heating season. Our top priority is to provide comfort and warmth to Ukrainian households. Additionally, Naftogaz Group continues to import fuel to remain fully prepared amid the war," said earlier Roman Chumak, CEO of Naftogaz Group.

He also noted that various scenarios are being created in cooperation with international partners to strengthen the country's energy resilience and address today’s wartime realities.

In 2024, the company increased its gas production to 13.9 bcm, eexpanding directional drilling, which facilitated gas production in hard-to-reach areas. A total of 60 directional wells were drilled, compared to 51 in 2023.

Moreover, the company drilled over 370,000 meters during the year, a 14 per cent increase from 2023 and the highest figure in recent years.

In 2024 alone, Naftogaz Group companies contributed UAH 104.3 billion (over $2.5 billion) in taxes to the state budget.

The move comes as the country faces an ongoing energy crisis, with concerns over sufficient gas supplies to meet the demands of both residential heating and industrial needs during the winter months.

By Vafa Guliyeva