The independent transmission operator ICGB announced its readiness to launch two new cross-border products for natural gas delivery to Ukraine. This strategic decision is aimed at enhancing energy security in the region and providing additional direct access to supplies from Northern Greece to Ukraine.
In an official statement, the company indicates that the two new bundled capacity products - Route 2 and Route 3, have been developed in close cooperation with the gas transmission system operators of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. These routes will allow connection to the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Alexandroupolis and the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), significantly expanding supply diversification opportunities.
A key aspect of the new initiative is the significant reduction in tariffs. All participating transmission operators along the route have agreed to apply a 25 percent discount from standard monthly tariffs. Particularly impressive is that ICGB and the Ukrainian operator GTSOU have decided to offer a reduction of 46 percent, which represents the most significant discount in the region to date.
"This decision underscores our long-term commitment to regional solidarity, energy security, and strategic flexibility," ICGB commented.
It is important to note that capacity will be offered only in the form of monthly products. In line with the strategic goal of the initiative, nominations will be allowed only for exit to Ukraine, without access to national virtual trading points or internal exit points in transit countries.
Route 2 starts from the Amphitrite interconnection point from DESFA's network and passes through the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector (IGB), continuing along the Trans-Balkan corridor through key points such as Stara Zagora, Negru Voda 1/Kardam, Isaccea 1/Orlovka, Causeni, and Grebenyki. Route 3 has a similar route but starts from ICGB's interconnection point with the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline in Komotini.
These new routes build upon the already announced product on Route 1, part of the Vertical Gas Corridor development initiative. Their main goal is to facilitate timely and cost-effective injection of natural gas into Ukraine's underground gas storage facilities before the winter season, which is critical for the country's energy security.
The new bundled capacity products have received approval from the Supervisory Board of the independent transmission operator and are to be submitted for consideration by the national energy regulators of the respective countries. This is an important step in the implementation process and demonstrates the seriousness of the intentions of all participating parties.
With the introduction of Route 2 and Route 3, ICGB solidifies its position as a key element of the Vertical Gas Corridor, playing a central role in connecting diversified natural gas sources from the south with markets in Southeast Europe, Ukraine, and Moldova. This initiative is a clear signal of the region's growing importance in the European energy architecture and underscores the importance of international cooperation in achieving energy security and stability.