New measures being prepared to decarbonize one of SGC components

TAP AG pipeline company is considering installing new electro-compressors at existing and new gas compressor stations on the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) as part of its decarbonization measures, TAP representative in Greece Ioannis Maris said, Report informs.

“Based on the studies conducted, 90% of TAP’s CO₂ emissions emanate from the operation of our gas-powered compressors,” he said.

“In this context, we are considering the installation of new electro-compressors in both the existing and new stations in the event of future expansion. This includes defining the connection points to electrical grid, grid reliability and the availability of green electrical power to meet the power requirements of the new compressors,” he noted.

“Looking into the future, a potential full expansion of the pipeline’s capacity will enhance our ability to bolster Europe’s energy transition efforts, while we are directing our efforts towards making our operations climate neutral by 2050,” he said.

“In both the short and long term, our focus is on prioritizing initiatives that have the highest impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while also enhancing energy efficiency measures. In 2023, we achieved an overall reduction of approximately 30% in our greenhouse gas emissions and about 70% in methane emissions compared to the annual forecast,” he added.

“TAP has been recognized by the EU’s Directorate General for Neighborhood & Enlargement as a flagship project for the decarbonization of the Western Balkans, fostering access to cleaner and affordable energy in the region,” he said.

Azerbaijan began exporting gas to Europe on December 31, 2020. In 2023, Azerbaijani gas supplies to Europe amounted to 11.8 billion cubic meters. According to agreements between Azerbaijan and the EU, by 2027, supplies of Azerbaijani gas will reach at least 20 billion cubic meters. TAP is a component of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) system.