The energy ministry is planning to upgrade the regulatory framework for petroleum product and natural gas facilities, regarded as necessary in order to align the framework with modern technological developments and optimal solutions. Also, through the upgrade, the energy ministry will also introduce new regulations for areas not covered by national legislation.

The energy ministry has announced a related tender for a specialized consultant to be  tasked with designing and delivering technical regulations in the form of a regulatory framework.

Issues to be covered by the upgrade include defining technical specifications, configuration, design, construction, inspections, safe operation, maintenance and fire protection of hydrocarbon extraction facilities, including the sealing of wells, as well as for overland pipelines transporting crude and petroleum products and subsea pipelines carrying crude, petroleum products, natural gas and hydrocarbon extraction.

An 18-month contract will be offered to the winning participant in the tender for the regulatory framework upgrade, budgeted at 304,838 euros. Based on the current schedule, the framework’s upgrade will be completed by 2023.