Germany's diversified gas supplier

At a glance

To ensure security of supply in any scenario, diversification is key – both in terms of energy sources and procurement channels.
Uniper covers approximately 20% of Germany's gas demand, sourcing natural gas and LNG from various regions worldwide via pipeline and ship.
As Germany's largest gas trader and one of Europe's largest LNG traders, Uniper's broad import capabilities and long-term contracts bring greater stability to a volatile energy system.

Diversifying security of supply

Germany needs energy – all around the clock. To deliver on that, we rely on strategic diversification and long-term planning.

In 2022, Germany had to replace more than 500 TWh of Russian gas in a very short time – out of a total natural gas consumption of just over 800 TWh. According to a BCG analysis¹, roughly half of all German gas imports are still tied to spot market prices. These prices, however, are highly volatile, as they are heavily influenced by external factors such as supply shortages or weather events. Long-term supply contracts offer greater stability and better protection against price shocks.

Uniper is part of the solution: as Germany's largest gas trader, Uniper supplies approximately 140 TWh of natural gas and LNG, covering almost 20 percent of national gas demand. To ensure the broadest possible positioning, Uniper holds supply contracts with a wide range of partners across multiple countries, including Norway, the United States, Canada, Azerbaijan, Romania, and Australia. We procure this gas via pipelines and by ship.

We are also one of Europe's largest LNG traders. In 2022, we built Germany's first LNG terminal in Wilhelmshaven, which handles approximately 6 percent of national gas demand. We have entered into long-term supply contracts covering more than 100 TWh. In addition to our short- and medium-term trading activities, we cover more than half of our sales business through long-term contracts, creating lasting stability.

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How geopolitical tensions are shaping the LNG markets

Uniper brings more than ten years of experience in the dynamic energy market. In our Uniper Market Insights series, we regularly highlight current developments and trends in the energy markets.

In this episode, Gregor Pett explores the impact of the Middle East conflict on Europe's security of supply with regard to energy markets and LNG trading.

FAQ

Uniper is a central pillar of Germany's gas supply, covering approximately 20 percent of demand. To respond flexibly to external challenges of all kinds, we have diversified our gas procurement sources and continue to broaden our positioning. To achieve a secure supply at competitive prices, we have also entered into long-term gas supply contracts and operate approximately one quarter of Germany's gas storage capacity.

Sourcing gas from a variety of suppliers is essential to ensuring long-term security of supply. External factors such as extreme weather events, political tensions, or supply disruptions can temporarily restrict individual supply streams. By maintaining a broad base of procurement sources across different regions, transport modes, and gas storage facilities, Germany remains more flexible and more independent.

Uniper procures its natural gas and LNG from a wide range of sources to ensure a secure and flexible supply. Key supplier countries include Norway, the United States, Canada, Azerbaijan, Romania, and Australia, among others. This broad positioning enables Uniper to respond more effectively to shifts in energy markets and the impact of geopolitical developments.

Learn more about our contribution to security of supply

Our energy sources

Uniper is one of Europe's largest power producers. With a broad energy mix and flexible power plants, we contribute to a secure energy supply – while driving the transition to low-carbon technologies.

Our energy sources

Power plants in Germany

Uniper’s flexible power plants contribute to secure electricity supply. Dispatchable capacity balances fluctuations from renewables – essential for security of supply throughout the energy transition.

Power plants in Germany

Global energy trading

Energy trading is central to Uniper's power and gas portfolio. With deep expertise in international markets, gas transport and storage, and power plant dispatch coordination, Uniper safeguards supply.

Global energy trading