May 2011, Vol. 238 No. 5

Projects

TAP, BH-Gas Agree To Study Supply Proposal

The Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG and the Bosnian system operator BH-Gas have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation (MOUC) to explore opportunities for developing natural gas markets and enhancing supply diversity in South East Europe (SEE).

Security of supply and diversification of gas sources, in particular in the SEE region, are important European objectives. This is the second initiative that TAP has undertaken, following an agreement with Croatian system operator Plinacro Ltd. to coordinate development of mutual gas pipeline projects.

The TAP consortium, comprised of Statoil, E.ON Ruhrgas and EGL, wants to build a gas pipeline via Greece, Albania and Italy to bring Caspian gas to Europe. The pipeline will be a key component in opening the European Union-designated Southern Gas Corridor. TAP is envisaged with reverse-flow capabilities that will also facilitate reliability in the event of regional energy supply disruptions.

Plinacro, together with BH-Gas, are promoting the Ionian Adriatic Pipeline (IAP), which intends to deliver gas to Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania. The IAP will bring major energy security and economic benefits to the region.