Independent Transmission System Operator (TSO), responsible for the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector (room), signed a memorandum of understanding on a unified approach and action plan to harmonize gas quality requirements at connection points within the Central and South-East European Energy Connectivity (CESEC) region, ICGB told Day.Az.
“During the latest CESEC meeting held in Budapest, transmission system operators from Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, North Macedonia, Croatia, Moldova, Ukraine, Slovenia and Hungary committed to joint actions aimed at strengthening the energy security of the region.
Transmission system operators will jointly assess the impact of the harmonization of gas quality requirements in the CESEC region on the relevant interconnection point agreements by April 30, 2025, and by the same date will submit an action plan including an assessment of the necessary steps and timelines for the development of uniform gas quality requirements,” – the company reported.
Transmission system operators in the CESEC region, together with the European Commission, are now prioritizing the harmonization of gas quality parameters at interconnection points as the region seeks to reduce and overcome its dependence on Russian natural gas through the integration of new supply sources, such as the Southern Gas Corridor, and LNG imports via Greece. These diversified sources have different gas quality parameters, which requires standardization to ensure compatibility of gas infrastructure and smooth cross-border gas trade and transportation. ICGB is already collaborating with all transmission system operators in the region through various initiatives, including the Vertical Gas Corridor.
It should be noted that the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector connects Bulgaria with the Southern Gas Corridor and is part of the Vertical Gas Corridor. This pipeline strengthens energy connectivity and security in the region by providing access to natural gas from new, diversified sources. Currently, the pipeline capacity is 3 billion cubic meters per year with the possibility of expansion to 5 billion cubic meters per year. The interconnector supplies about 70 percent of Bulgaria’s domestic natural gas consumption.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Energy Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to another edition of our exclusive interviews. Today, we’re delving into a significant development in the energy sector—specifically regarding gas quality harmonization in Central and South-East Europe. Joining us is Dr. Luciana Petrescu, an esteemed energy analyst and expert on regional energy collaboration. Dr. Petrescu, thank you for being with us today!
Dr. Luciana Petrescu: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
Editor: Let’s get right into it. We recently learned that the Independent Transmission System Operator in Greece has signed a memorandum of understanding with several other countries. Can you explain what this memorandum entails and its significance for the CESEC region?
Dr. Petrescu: Absolutely. The memorandum represents a collective commitment by transmission system operators from countries including Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, and several others to align and harmonize gas quality standards at connection points. This is crucial not just for operational efficiency but also for enhancing energy security across the region. By setting compatible standards, these countries can facilitate smoother gas exchanges and reduce the risk of supply disruptions.
Editor: This collaboration seems to involve numerous countries with diverse energy needs. How do you think this agreement will impact energy security for local consumers?
Dr. Petrescu: Well, it could have a profound impact. Harmonizing gas quality requirements means that different countries can interconnect more seamlessly, which enhances overall reliability. If one country faces a supply issue, another can step in more effectively. For consumers, this translates into potentially lower prices and a more stable supply of energy. It also means that the overall infrastructure can be optimized, leading to reduced operational costs.
Editor: To build on that, the memorandum was signed during the latest CESEC meeting in Budapest. Could you shed some light on what CESEC is and why it plays such a pivotal role in this context?
Dr. Petrescu: CESEC, or the Central and South-Eastern European Energy Connectivity, is an initiative aimed at enhancing energy security and market integration in the region. It brings together countries to work collaboratively on energy issues, particularly concerning gas and electricity networks. The CESEC framework allows for joint assessments, shared best practices, and coordinated actions, which are essential in addressing the complex energy challenges of the region.
Editor: It sounds like a promising step forward. Moving forward, what do you think will be the next challenges these countries might face after signing this memorandum?
Dr. Petrescu: One of the immediate challenges will be the practical implementation of the agreed standards. Countries will need to invest in upgrading their infrastructure and ensuring that all players in the supply chain are on board with the new regulations. Additionally, there are political and economic factors that could complicate cooperation. Ensuring consistent commitment across the involved nations will be key to maintaining the momentum generated by this memorandum.
Editor: It’s fascinating how interconnected energy policies and international relations can be. In your opinion, what does this memorandum indicate about the future of energy collaboration in Europe?
Dr. Petrescu: I believe it signals a growing recognition that energy security is a collective challenge that requires collaborative solutions. As countries face shifting energy dynamics, such as transitioning to greener sources or responding to geopolitical tensions, regional collaboration like this will become increasingly crucial. This memorandum may be a forerunner to even deeper integration of energy markets across Europe, which could enhance resilience and sustainability.
Editor: Dr. Petrescu, thank you so much for your insights today. It’s clear that this memorandum represents more than just an agreement; it symbolizes a commitment to collective energy resilience. We appreciate your time and expertise!
Dr. Petrescu: Thank you for having me. It was a pleasure discussing this vital topic with you!
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in! Stay informed, and we’ll catch you next time for more discussions on the latest developments in global energy.