"The liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal near Alexandroupolis is key to diversifying energy supplies and ensuring the security of the region. The implementation of the project among Bulgaria's top priorities, because through its infrastructure, LNG supplies from the US and other suppliers are to be brought to consumers in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, Hungary, Moldova and Ukraine," caretaker Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov told a meeting with the management of the Greek project company Gastrade A. E. and representatives of some of the other shareholders in the Alexandroupolis LNG terminal project. Malinov is part of the official delegation of President Rumen Radev, who is paying an official visit to Athens, Greece.
It should be noted that the Bulgarian side is a co-shareholder in the project, with Bulgartransgaz EAD holding 20% of the share capital of the project company Gastrade A.E. The initial timetable approved by the shareholders envisaged that the infrastructure would be commissioned in April 2024. A technical defect was identified after the start of the work to connect the LNG platform to the pipeline.
It was agreed at the meeting that a clear plan with specific technical solutions would be drawn up by July 15 with a view to achieving a timely commissioning. "I believe that decisive measures should be taken by Gastrade A.E. to address the defect and commission the facility within 2024. Further delay is absolutely unacceptable in view of the strategic importance of the terminal in securing energy supplies for the region," Malinov stressed. In his words, after the potential suspension of Russian natural gas transportation through Ukrainian territory from the beginning of 2025, alternative supplies will play a leading role in Europe's energy system.
/LG/
