site.btaAgreement Signed on Construction of Underwater Section of Gas Interconnector between Bulgaria, Romania

Agreement Signed on Construction of Underwater Section of Gas Interconnector between Bulgaria, Romania

Sofia, April 6 (BTA) - Wednesday saw the signing ceremony of an agreement on the construction of the underwater section of the gas interconnector between Bulgaria and Romania. Bulgarian Energy Minister Temenouzhka Petkova said at the signing ceremony, quoted by her Ministry, that the completion of the facility opens a new page in Bulgaria's energy.

The construction of the underwater section of the interconnector is the last stage before the final completion of the project. The works will be carried out by the Austrian Habau company.

Petkova voiced a hope that four months from now Bulgaria will have its first working gas interconnector which is a true step in implementing the principles of the European Energy Union for secure and stable deliveries, competitiveness and accessible energy.

The Minister also noted that the active work for implementing the gas interconnector projects with Bulgaria's neighbours and the projects for expanding and modernizing the gas distribution network and for local gas extraction provide a means whereby Bulgaria increase its energy security, along with the energy security of the countries in the region, and contribute in more competitive gas supplies to consumers in Southeast Europe. Petkova also noted the possibility being discussed now whereby Bulgaria participate in the project for construction of a liquefied gas terminal near Alexandroupolis in Greece.

Construction of the underwater section of the gas interconnector with Romania should be completed in 119 days. The length of the section is 2.1 km and the maximum capacity of the interconnector is 1.5 billion cu m annually.