Kipous

Domestic natural gas consumption strikes new high of 290,000 MWh

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Natural gas consumption in Greece struck an all-time high yesterday to reach 290,000 MWh from a previous high of 260,000 MWh set in 2017. The new record was driven by full-capacity operations of electricity producers and natural gas companies.

Gas consumption is expected to remain high today, estimates putting the figure at 270,000 MWh.

Energy market authorities have assured the country does not face any energy security concerns, noting the important sufficiency roles played by the Revythoussa LNG terminal’s increased gasification capacity and the increased ability of the Kipous gas grid interconnection in Evros, at Greece’s northeastern tip, to cover the country’s needs through inflow measuring 48,000 MWh per day.

Despite the reassurances, Greece’s grid has been stretched to its limits over the past couple of days. The country’s lignite and natural gas-fueled power stations have needed to operate at full capacity to meet the elevated electricity demand – along with crucial hydropower, electricity import and RES injections during peak hours.

Highlighting the system’s strain, the main power utility PPC’s lignite-fired power station, still operating despite the expiration of a European Commission time limit, is among the facilities contributing to cover the higher electricity demand.

 

DESFA, Botas working on deal to liberalize Greek entry point

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Greek gas grid operator DESFA and Turkish state-run crude oil and gas company Botas are working on an agreement concerning the Kipous grid interconnection in Evros, at Greece’s northeastern tip, which would enable third parties, in addition to Greek gas utility DEPA, to use the link as an entry point for natural gas imports.

DESFA has already reached an equivalent agreement with Bulgarian operator Bulgartransgaz for the gas grid interconnection at Sidirokastro, by the Greek-Bulgarian border. Subsequently, since 2017, five new firms besides DEPA, until then Greece’s only natural gas importer from this entry point, have brought gas quantities into the local market via the Sidirokastro link.

DEFSA and Botas have now been engaged in talks over the matter for several months. It is unclear how much more time will be needed for an agreement.

Their negotiations are focused on technical measure-related issues and a reverse-flow agreement that would also enable gas outflow from Greece to Turkey.