Alexandroupoli: First trial LNG cargo arrives on January 20

In the next 10-12 days, the Alexandroupoli LNG terminal will enter the trial operation phase. The floating LNG storage and regasification infrastructure is currently in the process of being connected to a subsea pipeline to transport volumes of fuel.

Mooring and connection
According to Gastrade, on December 23, 2023, the mooring of the LNG terminal at the port of Alexandroupoli was fully completed. Work has also begun to connect it to a 24 km long underwater pipeline. The pipeline docks at the Apalos Coast and continues underground north for another 4 km, before connecting with the National Gas Transmission System in the Amphitriti area at a new metering and control point operated by DESFA.

According to reports, the connection of the FSRU to the subsea pipeline is scheduled to be completed by January 20. The same sources do not rule out that these works may be completed before the specified deadline.

Test download
The first LNG cargo is then expected to arrive, which will reportedly mark the start of trial operation of the infrastructure. Details such as the source of origin and recipient of the gas volume are still unknown.

According to Gastrade sources, the trial period for the first FSRU in Greece will last six to seven weeks. Therefore, if testing proceeds according to this scenario, it is estimated that the Alexandroupolis FSRU will be ready for commercial operation in the first week of March.

In the Balkans
According to available information, in the near future, space at the LNG terminal will also be distributed among users who have booked cargo storage space through auctions.

The volumes of gas that will be moved are intended for consumers both in Greece itself and outside its borders. The IGB pipeline plans to supply volumes of gas intended for supply outside the Greek market to consumers in Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Serbia and Romania. It is possible, of course, that through traders the gas that will be transshipped at the Alexandroupoli LNG terminal will even reach Moldova and Hungary, sources say.

Floating infrastructure is a new alternative gas gateway for Europe, providing countries EU the possibility of greater energy independence.

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