TAP pipeline secures exemption from Third Energy Package

The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), representing the European section of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), obtained an extension of the validity period of the project’s exemption from third party access to its pipe.

The regulatory authorities in TAP's host countries – Greece, Italy and Albania – published a joint opinion on 29 April 2015, prolonging the validity period of TAP’s exemption from certain provisions of the EU Gas Directive.

The updated joint opinion followed the approval of the European Commission, as well as a positive opinion by the Energy Community Secretariat. The joint opinion was implemented in TAP’s host countries via national decisions.

In 2013, TAP secured an exemption from certain provisions of the EU Gas Directive [2009/73/EC], including a third party access exemption for the initial capacity of 10 billion cubic meters annually (bcm/y) for gas volumes from Azerbaijan supplied under the relevant Shah Deniz gas sales agreements over a period of 25 years.

ESO: Background information: Šefčovič gives his blessing to Southern Gas Corridor http://www.europeansources.info/record/sefcovic-gives-his-blessing-to-southern-gas-corridor/

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