Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG (TAP) has launched a market test to allow natural gas shippers to express interest and, in a later phase, potentially secure access to new, long-term capacity in TAP, thereby enabling the future expansion of the pipeline capacity.
The market test will be conducted in two main phases: a non-binding phase, starting on 1 July 2019, followed by a binding phase, expected to start earliest in the 2Q20.
Luca Schieppati, TAP’s Managing Director, said: “Starting 2020, TAP plans to initially transport approximately 10 billion m3 of natural gas annually, bringing a new source of gas to Europe. Yet, TAP is able to double its capacity to 20 billion m3/y, therefore, with the project now being more than 88% complete, we aim to ensure that the pipeline can expand in line with the future demand to transport gas into Europe. This is a great opportunity for additional gas resources to reach the European markets, supporting the transition to a cleaner energy mix.”
Marija Savova, Head of Commercial for TAP, added: “As completed segments of the pipeline are handed over for the commissioning phase of the project, we are focused on preparations for commercial operations as an independent transmission system operator and reliable service provider. We will be offering capacity products in line with the Capacity Allocation Mechanism Network Code.”
The market test is conducted under the rules and procedures specified in the Guidelines for the 2019 Market Test of Trans Adriatic Pipeline, approved by the National Regulatory Authorities of Greece, Italy and Albania.
As a highly strategic energy project for the European Union, TAP is recognised as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) by the EU Commission.