[News updated at 20:25 on 08/01/2025]
A subsidiary of Gazprom has begun the mass closure of auto gas methane filling stations (CNG filling stations). In June, clients received notifications about the cessation of operations of more than 30 facilities. This is reported by the Telegram channel "Avtovoz"
The discussion concerns filling stations built since 2019 as part of the state program "Development of the Market for Gas Engine Fuel," which was financed from the budget in the amount of about 187 billion rubles.
The program provided subsidies for citizens and enterprises for the installation of gas cylinder equipment, as well as support for automobile plants for the production of vehicles running on methane. However, according to the CNG filling station community, some filling stations may still be preserved — some facilities are being transferred to the regions, while decisions on others have been suspended.
Judging by reports from the field, the closure is systematic. Experts have long pointed out that, unlike the propane-butane market, where filling stations pay for themselves, methane infrastructure is entirely dependent on government support. The increase in gas prices further undermines interest in this type of fuel, despite its relative cheapness in terms of mileage.
Updated. The press service of Gazprom Gas-Engine Fuel commented on the information about the station closure.
They clarified that the operation of each station is assessed individually. Decisions are made jointly with regional authorities and partners. Stations may continue to operate, be leased, franchised, or temporarily mothballed.
It is emphasized that the list circulating on social networks is outdated. Most of the facilities have been excluded from it — including due to the increase in demand for methane and the transition of transport to gas engine fuel.
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