Recital (29)

The experience with the phase-out of Russian gas supplies via Ukraine has shown that good preparation and coordination in a spirit of solidarity can avoid market disruptions or security of supply problems potentially resulting from changing gas suppliers. To prepare for the full phase-out of Russian gas in a coordinated manner, and to give the market sufficient time to anticipate the changes involved without risk to the security of gas supply or a significant impact on energy prices, Member States should prepare national diversification plans for natural gas and submit them to the Commission by 1 March 2026. Those plans should be subject to the rules of professional secrecy and not be disclosed without the agreement of the relevant Member State. They should describe measures planned at national or regional level in order to reduce demand, foster renewable energy production and ensure alternative supplies, as well as identify possible technical, contractual or regulatory barriers which may complicate the diversification process. Since the diversification process may require coordination of measures at national, regional or Union level, the Commission should assess the national diversification plans for natural gas, with the possibility to issue recommendations suggesting adaptations where necessary.