Р'Р Azerbaijan is involved in testing the first gas production well on Shah Deniz field. The well is opened periodically for conduct of technical work, Trend reports.
The first commercial gas production is scheduled to start this week.
The delivery of first gas via the pipeline is expected to begin this evening [14 December]. There are 4 production wells on the field.
Azerbaijan is continuing talks with Iran on purchase of gas. At present commercial and technical issues for gas importation from Iran under resolution, the same source emphasized. Azerbaijan will purchase 1 bln cu m of gas from Iran in 2007.
Azerbaijan continues gas import from Russia in the volume of 15-16mln cu m a day.
This volume will be preserved by the end of December, the same source noted. Azerigas advised Trend that Azerbaijani gas transportation system is fully ready to admit gas from Shah Deniz field.
The existing gas pipeline will be used in this respect. A new Sangachal-Hajigabul pipeline will be built by AprilMay 2007, Azerigas informed.