(MENAFN- AzerNews)
Ulviyya Shahin Read more
The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) has emerged as a pivotalinfrastructure project, linking the energy-rich Caspian Sea regionto key markets in Europe. Since its inception, TAP has beeninstrumental in establishing a direct route for natural gas fromthe Southern Gas Corridor to Italy, Central Europe, and theBalkans. This strategic connection was emphasized by Marija Savova,Commercial Director of TAP AG, during her address at the Flame 2024Conference in Amsterdam, as reported by Azernews .
Savova highlighted TAP's significant contributions since thecommencement of its operations at the end of 2020. Notably, the gastransported through TAP accounted for a substantial portion oftotal gas imports in Italy and Greece in 2023, demonstrating thepipeline's crucial role in meeting energy demand in thesemarkets.
Looking ahead, Savova emphasized the potential for TAP'sexpansion to double its capacity in stages. This expansion plan isenvisioned to address challenges related to the security of gassupply while also aligning with the European Union's ambitiousdecarbonization targets. By facilitating the transportation ofhydrogen and other renewable gases from countries along theSouthern Gas Corridor to Europe, TAP could further contribute tothe continent's transition towards cleaner energy sources.
Azerbaijan's entry into the European gas market on December 31,2020, marked a significant milestone in the region's energylandscape. Under the agreement between Azerbaijan and the EU,Azerbaijani gas exports are expected to reach a minimum of 20billion cubic meters annually by 2027.
In line with these developments, the first stage of expansionfor TAP is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. Thisexpansion will enable TAP to accept an additional 1.2 billion cubicmeters of Azerbaijani gas, further enhancing energy flows to keydestinations. Italy and Albania are poised to benefit significantlyfrom this expanded capacity, with Italy set to receive 1 billioncubic meters and Albania receiving another 200 million cubic metersof Azerbaijani gas starting from 2026.
The ongoing expansion and operations of TAP underscore itscrucial role in shaping Europe's energy landscape, fosteringregional cooperation, and driving sustainable energy transitions inline with global climate objectives.
Azerbaijan plays a pivotal role in the Trans Adriatic Pipeline(TAP) project, contributing significantly to its success andproviding various benefits to both Azerbaijan and the widerregion:
Energy Export Diversification: Azerbaijan'sparticipation in the TAP project enables the country to diversifyits energy export routes and markets. By connecting Azerbaijani gasfields to European consumers via TAP, Azerbaijan reduces itsdependence on traditional export routes and expands its reach intolucrative European markets.
Economic Benefits: The TAP project generatessubstantial economic benefits for Azerbaijan. It creates employmentopportunities during the construction phase and generates revenuethrough transit fees and gas sales. Additionally, increased gasexports contribute to Azerbaijan's GDP growth and overall economicdevelopment.
Strategic Importance: TAP enhances Azerbaijan'sstrategic importance as a reliable energy supplier in the Europeanmarket. By providing a direct and secure route for Azerbaijani gasto reach Europe, TAP strengthens Azerbaijan's position as a keyplayer in the global energy landscape and enhances its geopoliticalinfluence.
Infrastructure Development: Participation inthe TAP project necessitates the development of essential energyinfrastructure within Azerbaijan. This includes the constructionand expansion of gas extraction, processing, and transportationfacilities, which not only support the TAP project but alsocontribute to the overall modernization of Azerbaijan's energyinfrastructure.
International Cooperation: The TAP projectfosters international cooperation and partnerships betweenAzerbaijan and European countries involved in the project on such a large-scale energy infrastructure projectstrengthens diplomatic ties, promotes regional stability, andenhances Azerbaijan's reputation as a reliable partner in theinternational energy market.
Contribution to Energy Security: Bydiversifying Europe's energy supply sources, TAP enhances energysecurity for both Azerbaijan and European countries. Azerbaijan'sparticipation in TAP helps to stabilize energy markets, reducesupply vulnerabilities, and mitigate geopolitical risks associatedwith reliance on a single energy supplier or transit route.
Azerbaijan's involvement in the TAP project brings significanteconomic, strategic, and diplomatic benefits. It positionsAzerbaijan as a key player in the European energy market,strengthens its ties with European partners, and contributes toregional stability and prosperity.
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