The VNG's history began in 1958 when Technische Leitung Ferngas was established as a division of the electricity supplier VEB Verbundnetz West.

In 1969, it became an independent unit which was integrated with the Schwarze Pumpe gas combine in 1970.

In mid-1990s started its international expansion having activities in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Italy and Norway.

In 2008, the VNG acquired 42% of its natural gas volumes from Russia, 24% from Norway, 23% from Germany and 11% on European spot and futures market.

The VNG's natural pipeline network consists of over 7,000 kilometres (4,300 mi) in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia, Brandenburg, Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.