Europe prepares to cut gas consumption in winter as Russia fails to reopen crucial pipeline

Germany and France aim to reduce heat in public buildings, while Italy plans to close them earlier and reduce lighting 40% audience. Gazprom says Nord Stream 1 pipeline could be closed indefinitely

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EU 'must be less dependent' on Russian gas, says Michel in March

Europe is preparing to cut winter gas consumption after Russia failed to reopen a crucial gas pipeline yesterday as part of an ongoing 'weaponisation of energy'

Germany and France aim to reduce heat in public buildings, while Italy plans to close them earlier and reduce street lighting by 40%.

The Germans have been ordered to reduce their consumption.

The Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline from Russia to Germany has been closed for three days for "maintenance work". But Russian energy company Gazprom now says it has a leak, meaning it could be shut down indefinitely.

Energy prices have skyrocketed since Russia invaded Ukraine in February and tight supplies mean families in Europe could be without heating this winter.

The UK is not dependent on Russia for gas, but the pipeline closure may have affected UK customers by driving up wholesale gas prices (

Picture:

AFP via Getty Images)

The EU has accused Russia of using its gas supplies as an economic weapon against Western countries that support Kyiv.

EU Economics Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said he expects Russia to honor energy contracts, but warned: "If the militarization of energy continues or increases, the 'EU is ready to react.'

The UK does not depend on Russia for gas, but the pipeline closure may have hurt UK customers by driving up wholesale gas prices.