Albania’s gas transmission system operator company Albgaz is in discussion with the TAP consortium developing the Trans Adriatic Pipeline) for provision of maintenance service concerning the pipeline’s Albanian section, an Albgaz source has told Azerbaijani news agency Trend.

In April, DESFA, Greece’s gas transmission system operator, and Albgaz had signed a memorandum of understanding to create a joint venture for maintenance of TAP in Albania.

“We have not received yet the scope of works as the first necessary step from TAP AG. Albgaz is in discussion with TAP AG and we believe it is possible to finalize an agreement within the current year,” the Albgaz source noted.

The source noted that Albgaz was in discussion with DESFA but added that the Albanian operator will not take part in any consortium or partnership with regards to maintenance services for the pipeline’s Albanian section unless it has first received all necessary details from the TAP consortium on the scope of the work, the principles, strategy and other related project details.

“Right now, we believe we are in a better position than we were originally as we have been certified as a TSO by the Albanian Regulator and have also been recognized and certified by the Energy Community Secretariat. We will receive a full license this September. We will then proceed to establish partnerships with all TSOs to promote natural gas developments in the best interests of Albgaz and Albania,” the Albgaz source added.