Problems with the restoration of full operation of the Nord Stream pipeline continue to put pressure on gas futures prices in Europe, and this factor remains the key reason for the increase in gas prices.

Exchange gas prices in Europe began last week near $2,100 per thousand cubic meters and rose gradually. This week, the growth accelerated: Monday prices were over $2,400 per thousand cubic meters for the first time since early March, and at the opening of trading on Tuesday they were over the $2,600 mark.

Why do gas prices keep going up? 

Why do gas prices keep going up? Last week, gas prices in the EU started going up again. It was caused by Gazprom’s statement that anti-Russian sanctions hamper resolution of the situation with transportation and repair of Siemens engines for the Nord Stream pipeline.

The analysts also singled out additional price growth factors. Intensification of upward gas price dynamics might have been provoked by a stoppage of annual preventive maintenance of some capacities of Norwegian gas field Troll and gas treatment unit Kollsnes from August 13 to the end of the month. This led to a fall in production capacity of 20 million cubic meters of gas during this period.

It is worth noting the atypically high temperatures in Europe, which lead, on the one hand, to a rise in demand for electricity, for air conditioning, and, on the other hand, to a reduction in hydropower generation amid droughts in some regions, notably in France.

Moreover, according to the association WindEurope, wind generation in the European Union remains below the norm, which is usually 11-20% in summer. On August 15, the share of wind power generation was 9.5% of the total. This factor could also increase demand for gas.

We previously reported that Oil prices fell again at the start of Monday’s trading.