"Discussions with operators started in September to have different working scenarios. Based on current predictions, we will not see price increases after March 31, 2026," Ivan said after a National Energy Command meeting. He noted that some operators already supply natural gas below the legally capped price due to sufficient domestic production.

The minister outlined a backup plan involving gradual cap reduction if market disruptions occur. "We're considering a scenario with gradual reduction of this cap, so we don't have what happened with electricity when prices suddenly doubled for final consumers from July 1," Ivan explained, according to Agerpres. The gradual approach could involve 8-10% monthly reductions until April 2027.

Ivan emphasised the importance of market-based solutions while protecting consumers. "I believe strongly in correct market solutions where the state intervenes, but only to a point, because I'm interested in the final consumer," he said. The strategy aims to maintain low prices without brutal state intervention, particularly during peak winter consumption periods.

Current price caps remain at maximum RON 0.31/kWh including VAT for household customers and RON 0.37/kWh for non-household customers with annual consumption up to 50,000 MWh until March 31. The Neptun Deep project, starting exploitation in 2027, is expected to strengthen domestic gas supply security.