The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has taken significant measures to ensure that market participants can access the natural-gas storages owned by Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (NAM). This decision is crucial for ensuring that the storages in Norg and Grijpskerk are adequately filled ahead of the winter season.

Under the new regulations, NAM is required to allow access to its natural-gas storages based on non-discriminatory, objective, and transparent terms. This initiative aims to enhance the security of natural gas supply in the Netherlands, especially in light of the closure of the Groningen natural-gas field and the cessation of operations by GasTerra in 2026.

ACM has imposed a binding course of conduct on NAM, which includes stipulations on how and when access must be granted to other companies. NAM is also required to charge reasonable tariffs based on historical costs. Currently, NAM is in discussions with Energie Beheer Nederland (EBN) to finalize arrangements regarding access to the storages. If an agreement is reached, NAM may no longer need to adhere to the binding course of conduct.

According to European legislation, the Netherlands must ensure that its natural-gas storages are filled to at least 74 percent capacity between October 1 and December 1 each year.