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15.09.2011 17:30

Trans-Adriatic Pipeline Submits Independent Application to Greek Regulator

TAP will be ready to commence pipeline operations in time for first export gas west of Turkey (expected in 2017/18) from Shah Deniz

AUTHOR: publics.bg

© Aquafornia@flickr.com

Baar, Switzerland. The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) has submitted its application for the construction of an Independent Natural Gas System (INGS) to RAE, the Greek Regulatory Authority for energy. TAP’s Greek section of the pipeline will be approximately 465 km long and will commence at Komotini, where it ties into the national grid system. The pipeline will then cross Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea, coming ashore in southern Italy.

Rikard Scoufias, TAP’s Country Manager in Greece, commented: “TAP’s INGS submission follows shortly after on our TPA (Third Party Access) exemption application last month and constitutes a key element of the final steps towards concluding the permitting process for construction of the TAP pipeline. The construction itself, which is backed by some of the largest European energy companies (Statoil, EGL and E.ON), is expected to bring in excess of EUR 1.5bn investment into Greece and to generate approximately 2,000 jobs. I am very pleased to see how well we are progressing with the Greek authorities regarding our various permits. Our commitment to Greece stands as firm as ever, and we are looking forward to a long and fruitful partnership.”

TAP will be ready to commence pipeline operations in time for first export gas west of Turkey (expected in 2017/18) from Shah Deniz.

The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is a natural gas pipeline project that will transport gas from the Caspian region via Greece and Albania and across the Adriatic Sea to southern Italy and further into western Europe. The project is aimed at enhancing security of supply as well as diversification of gas supplies for the European markets. TAP will open a new so-called Southern Gas Corridor to Europe and establish a new market outlet for natural gas from the Caspian Sea and beyond.

The project is designed to expand transportation capacity from 10 to 20 bcm per year. TAP also envisages physical reverse flow of up to 80 per cent and the option to develop natural gas storage facilities in Albania to further ensure security of supply.

TAP’s shareholders are EGL of Switzerland (42.5%), Norway’s Statoil (42.5%) and E.ON Ruhrgas of Germany (15%).

TAP’s transportation solution will be approximately 800 kilometres in length (Approx.: Greece 466 km; Albania 204 km; offshore Adriatic Sea 110 km; Italy 4 km). Transport will begin near the Greek-Turkish border (Komotini), cross Albania and the Adriatic Sea, and connect with the Italian natural gas distribution system near San Foca in Italy.