Skip to content
BOE-A-2026-20265 ·30 September 2026 ·Royal Decree-Law critical
Administrative

Gas storage obligates: GNL storage obligation increases to 21 days and LPG price caps implemented

Royal Decree-Law 25/2026 increases GNL storage requirements to ensure supply during winter cold snaps or gas shortages, raising the obligation from 16.5 to 21 days for the November-March period (art. 1). It also establishes temporary price caps on commercial bottled LPG in containers between 8 and 20 kg (art. 1). These measures address energy market instability caused by the Middle East conflict.

In 3 key points

  1. Increase in LNG storage obligations from 16.5 to 21 days for the November-March period (art. 1)
  2. 15% tolerance margin for daily LNG stock compliance (art. 1)
  3. Price caps on butane in canisters between 8 and 20 kg (art. 1)

How it affects those involved

For entities required to store gas, operational and inventory burdens will increase as mandatory reserves rise from 16.5 to 21 days, although a 15% tolerance margin is permitted for daily compliance provided the monthly average is met (Art. 1). Butane consumers in rural or vulnerable areas will benefit from a cap on maximum selling prices for 8 to 20 kg canisters (Art. 1). The energy sector must adjust its winter action plans to comply with the new thresholds for November-December 2026 and March 2027 (Art. 1).

Frequently asked questions

How many days of LNG reserves must I now maintain?
The obligation increases from 16.5 to 21 days for the period between November and March (Art. 1).
Is there any flexibility regarding daily storage compliance?
Yes, a 15% tolerance margin is permitted for daily compliance, provided the monthly average is equal to or greater than the monthly obligation (Art. 1).
Which butane containers are subject to price controls?
Commercial butane packaged in containers with a load between 8 and 20 kg and a tare weight equal to or greater than 9 kg (Art. 1).

Lifecycle

2026-09-30PublishedPublished in the BOE
Official text Based on BOE data (boe.es). Information, not advice.

Does this provision affect you?

The administrative team reviews your specific situation.

Talk to the administrative team
This analysis is informational only and does not constitute legal advice or create a client-adviser relationship. BM Consulting.
Email
Contact