Britain’s natural gas storage levels have seen a modest increase in recent days, spurred by a surge in wholesale prices linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to data from National Gas. The increase comes as concerns mount over potential disruptions to energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict.
National Gas reported 6,999 gigawatt hours (GWh) of fossil gas in storage on Saturday, a slight uptick from earlier in the week, though still significantly below the 9,105 GWh held at the same point last year. Maximum storage capacity stands at 12 days of gas, meaning current reserves cover just under two days of demand. This low level has prompted debate over the UK’s vulnerability to supply shocks, particularly as tankers carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) are being diverted towards Asia.
The price of natural gas has risen by 93 per cent since the beginning of the conflict, reaching levels not seen since early 2022. Although experts suggest UK households are unlikely to see an immediate impact on energy bills – the next price cap adjustment isn’t until July – a prolonged period of volatility could lead to higher prices later in the year, particularly impacting efforts to replenish summer stock for the winter months.
Cabinet minister Steve Reed attempted to allay fears on Monday, stating that gas supplies were “in line with what you would expect at this time of year” and that there was “no immediate threat.” He emphasized the UK’s diverse gas supply mix, including sources from the UK continental shelf, Norway, LNG imports, and interconnectors with continental Europe. Still, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero declined to specify the exact number of days of gas currently in storage.
Energy minister Michael Shanks dismissed reports of gas shortages as “categorically untrue and lead to dangerous scaremongering.” National Gas echoed this sentiment, asserting that storage levels are broadly typical for this time of year and represent only a portion of the overall gas supply.
Despite these assurances, the UK’s limited storage capacity leaves it exposed to potential disruptions. The country no longer relies heavily on the Middle East for physical supplies of oil and gas, but the conflict’s impact on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is expected to drive up prices globally. The escalating crisis has already led to strikes on Iran by the US and Israel, resulting in widespread attacks in the Gulf region.
Analysts at Cornwall Insight cautioned that the UK’s dependence on global gas markets means international wholesale price movements will directly affect domestic bills. Jess Ralston, head of energy at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, noted that increased renewable energy integration since 2022 has lessened the potential shock, but argued that further investment in renewables is crucial to reduce reliance on external factors.
The Energy Crisis Commission previously warned that the UK remained “dangerously underprepared” for another energy crisis. As of Tuesday, March 10, 2026, no further statements have been issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero regarding potential contingency plans.
