The sharp increase in Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) deliveries to Spain in February 2026 came as an unexpected factor for the country’s domestic energy market. This change not only affects the import structure but also influences strategic decisions in the energy sector and impacts gas prices for Spanish consumers. According to Enagás, Russian LNG ranked third among all suppliers, reflecting a shift in the market balance of power.
In February, Spain purchased 4,582 GWh of LNG from Russia, accounting for 14.6% of the country’s total LNG imports for the month. This figure is more than double that of February 2025, when 2,190 GWh were acquired. Such a surge—an increase of 109%—sets Russia apart from other exporters, despite the continued dominance of the US and Algeria, which supplied 33.8% and 29.1% of imports respectively. As Enagás notes, Russia has strengthened its position amid changes in global energy flows.
Market changes
In recent years, Spain has actively diversified its gas supply sources. However, February data show that Russian LNG is once again becoming a significant element in the import structure. By the end of 2025, Russia ranked third among suppliers, behind only the USA and Algeria. In 2024, Russian LNG purchases totaled 72,360 GWh, dropping to 42,629 GWh in 2025. Yet the growth in February may signal renewed interest in Russian fuel, despite geopolitical challenges and sanctions.
According to Enagás data, increased purchases are linked to changes in pricing policy and supply chain logistics. Russian LNG proved price-competitive, allowing Spanish companies to respond quickly to global market fluctuations. In addition, Spain’s LNG infrastructure makes it possible to rapidly scale up imports from different regions, giving flexibility when choosing suppliers.
Impact on the energy sector
The rise in Russian LNG imports could affect tariffs for end consumers and influence the procurement strategies of major energy companies. With high volatility in global energy prices, Spain is compelled to seek the best offers to ensure supply stability and minimize costs. According to russpain.com, such changes may lead to a review of long-term contracts and a reassessment of priorities in the country’s energy policy.
At the same time, the growing share of Russian LNG in import volumes is sparking debate among experts and policymakers. Issues of supply security, dependence on specific countries, and compliance with European sanctions are being discussed at various levels. Nevertheless, economic viability and market flexibility remain key factors in decision-making.
Context and trends
In recent years, Spain has faced the need to quickly adapt to changes in the global gas market. After a reduction in supplies from certain countries and rising energy prices, Spain actively sought alternative sources. In 2023 and 2024, there was an increase in LNG imports from the USA and Algeria, but Russian gas continued to occupy a significant share despite political challenges.
Similar spikes in procurement volumes have occurred before, when, amid global market instability, Spain increased imports from the most advantageous suppliers. For example, in 2022, the country sharply ramped up LNG purchases from the USA following supply disruptions from Algeria. These shifts highlight the flexibility of the Spanish market and its ability to rapidly respond to external challenges.
