Ukraine to strengthen cooperation with neighbors in gas transportation

Olha Bielkova, Director for Interaction with State Bodies and International Organizations at LLC Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine (GTSOU), said this at the Budapest LNG Summit, Ukrinform reports, citing the company's press service.

During the summit, among short-term plans, Bielkova named specific areas for strengthening further cooperation with Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Moldova and Hungary. And today, she added, it is not only about optimizing the system in accordance with the current volumes and directions of natural gas transportation, but also about preparing for the transportation of decarbonized gases, including biomethane and hydrogen.

At the same time, while the production of renewable gases has not yet reached the necessary volumes, natural gas will remain a transitional fuel capable of replacing less environmentally friendly coal. Similar trends, Bielkova said, are observed in all countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

"Only joint measures to prevent monopolies, as well as research into the use of the GTS for decarbonized gases, combining the potential of the existing infrastructure, will contribute to the energy security of the region with optimal costs for energy self-sufficiency," GTSOU said.

Earlier reports said that GTSOU and Slovakia's Eustream had agreed to extend the validity period of the increased firm capacity for gas imports until September 30, 2023.

GTSOU also signed a memorandum with Poland's Gaz-System S.A. on cooperation to improve interaction between the Ukrainian and Polish gas markets. In particular, it is planned to determine and implement pilot projects for the production and transportation of biomethane and hydrogen.

Photo: tsoua.com