Czech Republic uses reservoirs and gas storage to offset drought and supply pressures

In the first half of 2024, the Vranov reservoir released 35 million cubic metres of water and the Nové Mlýny reservoir another 30 million into the Dyje River. Officials say this emergency release is needed because inflows were about 70 % below the long‑term average, threatening river flows and drinking‑water supplies. Water taken from the Vír reservoir for potable use rose sharply, with utilities drawing 6.2 million cubic metres in the same period. Technical‑operations director Marie Kutílková noted that “this year the flow‑enhancing reservoirs started unusually early, already in mid‑March,” and the Morava River Basin’s general director David Fína warned of unprecedented low water levels.

By 20 July, Czech gas storage held 1.7 billion cubic metres, roughly a third less than a year earlier and about 49 % of total capacity. Re‑filling has been slower due to a milder winter, market dynamics and tensions in the Middle East affecting supply routes. Ministry of Industry and Trade spokesperson Tadeáš Provazník reassured that the lower fill level does not threaten gas deliveries, citing diversified imports from Western Europe, Norway and US‑sourced LNG. Authorities expect the existing reserves to cover the upcoming winter demand without shortages.