BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 6. The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is set to undergo further expansion, positioning it as a pivotal component in the energy partnership between Azerbaijan and Europe, particularly Italy, Trend reports via Baku Network.
The pipeline is the final segment of the Southern Gas Corridor, which facilitates the supply of Azerbaijani gas to the European market. The planned expansion of TAP is expected to significantly boost gas volumes, contributing importantly to the strengthening of Europe’s energy security.
Key aspects of TAP expansion:
Increasing the throughput capacity to 20 billion cubic meters
The TAP pipeline, currently with a capacity of around 10 billion cubic meters per year, is slated for an expansion to 20 billion cubic meters. This will require upgrades to the pipeline’s technical infrastructure and modernization of facilities, enhancing gas supply to countries including Italy, Greece, Albania, and other Southeast European states.
Growing demand and Europe's energy security
The European Union is keen on diversifying its energy sources to reduce reliance on Russian gas. In this context, the TAP expansion holds strategic importance. Enhanced pipeline capacity will enable Azerbaijan to play a more substantial role in meeting Europe’s energy needs, bolstering the continent's energy security.
Attracting investments and modernization
The expansion project will necessitate significant financial investments. The TAP consortium is securing new investments to support the increase in capacity and infrastructure modernization. Key stakeholders in TAP include bp, SOCAR (State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic), and other international partners crucial to the project's development.
New gas sources for Europe
The Shah Deniz field in Azerbaijan remains the primary source of gas for TAP. Future plans involve increasing production through the exploration of new fields, which will significantly raise Azerbaijani gas exports to Europe via the expanded TAP.
Anticipated benefits
Strengthening Azerbaijan's position in the European gas market: The expansion will enable Azerbaijan to considerably increase its share of the European gas market and enhance its role as a strategic energy supplier.
Increasing Europe's energy security: European countries will benefit from more stable and reliable gas supplies, aiding in their energy independence.
Expanding regional cooperation: TAP’s expansion will not only fortify the partnership between Azerbaijan and Italy but also strengthen economic ties with Greece, Albania, and other Balkan nations.
The expansion of TAP is crucial for cementing Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable gas supplier to the European market and ensuring stability and energy security across Europe.