Komotini: ICGB, the operator of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), is making progress on its pipeline expansion project, aiming to increase the pipeline’s technical capacity from 3 to 5 billion cubic meters (bcm) per year, as reported to Trend.
According to Trend News Agency, the expansion is motivated by significant strategic interest in the route and aligns with Europe’s goals for supply flexibility and long-term stability. Although final approval is pending from the company’s shareholders, ICGB has already approved the procurement strategy and completed the design process for its first gas metering station. The company has finished essential preparatory work and is actively engaging with international partners, including U.S. institutions, whose financial backing could expedite the final investment decision.
ICGB Executive Officer George Satlas highlighted that IGB’s recent performance underscores its strategic importance for Southeast Europe. The positive feedback for Routes 2 and 3 emphasizes the regional demand for reliable and diversified access to LNG and other sources. The Vertical Gas Corridor plays a crucial role in connecting these supplies to markets with increasing security needs, such as Moldova and Ukraine. Satlas stressed that ICGB’s mission focuses on ensuring network flexibility and resilience, positioning the IGB route as a vital energy infrastructure.
As ICGB plans for future development stages, its priority remains on enhancing a dependable and adaptable network that strengthens supply security for countries relying on this corridor.
The IGB gas pipeline connects with the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) near Komotini, Greece, and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) near Stara Zagora. The pipeline spans a total length of 182 kilometers, with a pipe diameter of 32 inches. Its current design capacity is up to 3 billion cubic meters per year from Greece to Bulgaria, with potential expansion to 5 billion cubic meters per year based on market interest and the capacities of neighboring gas transmission systems.