BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. European Commission encourages EU companies to engage in gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan, EU Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson said in an exclusive interview with Trend.
She noted that the European Commission aims to facilitate energy trade with Azerbaijan, but it is not a party to such contracts.
“The conclusion of gas supply contracts is up to companies. On our side, we continue to engage with our Azerbaijani counterparts to foster cooperation and ensure we have a conducive business environment for a stable energy relationship. We also encourage EU companies to engage in gas supply agreements with Azerbaijan. However, the final decision on the signature rests with the private operators,” Simson added.
The transportation of Azerbaijani gas to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) commenced on December 31, 2020. Gas from the Caspian Sea region is conveyed to European countries through Georgia and Türkiye.
This extensive project aims to diversify energy supply routes and sources, bolstering Europe's energy security. The project's cost was $33 billion, with a forecasted cost of $45 billion. Anticipated capital expenditures for the SGC project are expected to be fully recouped within 8-10 years.
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