BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 20. The primary objective of the ICGB, the operator of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) is to increase the capacity from 3 bcm/y to 5 bcm/y, says George Satlas, executive officer and board member of ICGB AD, the pipeline operator, Trend reports.
However, according to the executive director, there are ongoing priorities for ICGB in various areas, such as regulatory compliance, operational readiness, market development, capacity allocation, and improving interconnectivity and regional integration.
"Maintaining the infrastructure in a state of operational readiness is of utmost importance. This involves implementing suitable management systems, processes, and protocols for pipeline maintenance, monitoring, and emergency response. From a commercial standpoint, the ICGB team actively engages with potential shippers and customers, conducts market tests, and allocates pipeline capacity to interested parties. Establishing robust relationships with market participants and ensuring transparency and fair competition are critical during this phase of development," he explained.
Apart from day-to-day operational activities, ICGB's management explores opportunities to enhance interconnectivity with other gas infrastructure projects in the region, Satlas told Greek state media, adding that collaborating with neighboring countries to improve gas flows, promote cross-border cooperation, and support regional energy integration are essential goals.
"This involves coordination with other pipelines, LNG terminals, and market operators in the region, fostering a more interconnected and integrated gas market that benefits the entire energy ecosystem in the area - a top priority for ICGB.
Additionally, ICGB is actively cooperating with local licensed operators interested in connecting their networks to IGB. This collaboration allows regions along the pipeline's route, which previously lacked such opportunities, to access diversified deliveries. Such efforts contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the energy sector in the area," he added.
IGB is the first route for diversified supplies of natural gas to Bulgaria, guaranteeing increased security of supply and diversity of sources. The gas pipeline enables the transportation of natural gas from new sources to other countries in the region as well, including Moldova and Ukraine.
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