Gazprom Plans to Start Nord Stream 2 Gas Pipeline Next Month

Gazprom PJSC is planning to start flowing natural gas through one of the world’s most controversial pipelines next month, according to people with direct knowledge of the company’s plan.

The Russian gas giant wants to begin shipping the fuel through the first leg of the Nord Stream 2 link to Germany on Oct. 1, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private. The timing of actual flows into Europe’s gas grid will still depend on a decision by the German regulator.

The long-awaited pipeline could provide some relief to European gas markets facing a ...