The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) has successfully completed its first phase of capacity expansion, adding 1.2 billion cubic meters of natural gas transport capacity annually. This expansion is significant as it follows commitments made during the 2021 market test, where shippers secured long-term capacity for increased deliveries, reflecting a growing demand for diversified energy sources in Europe.
As part of the infrastructure upgrade, a new 15 MW compressor unit has been installed at the Kipoi compressor station, strategically located near the Greece-Turkey border. This enhancement allows TAP to transport larger volumes of Caspian natural gas to European markets, thereby improving supply reliability and reinforcing the region’s energy security.
This milestone arrives nearly five years after TAP commenced gas transportation to Europe in late 2020. Since its inception, the pipeline has played a pivotal role in diversifying Europe’s gas supplies, having delivered over 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas from the Caspian region to consumers across Europe.
Luca Schieppati, Managing Director of TAP, characterized this expansion as a crucial step in the pipeline’s development. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of employees, contractors, suppliers, and shareholders that facilitated this project, underscoring the importance of teamwork in achieving such infrastructure advancements.
The expansion also represents a notable achievement for the Southern Gas Corridor, a 3,500-kilometer network connecting Caspian gas fields with European markets. Murad Heydarov, chairman of TAP’s board, highlighted the strategic importance of this corridor as a stable and competitive energy route that enhances Europe’s energy framework.
Moreover, this development underscores Azerbaijan’s increasing role as a key gas supplier to Europe. By providing an alternative energy source, TAP contributes to reducing reliance on traditional supply routes and bolsters the reliability and resilience of the European energy system through increased capacity.
