The Trans Adriatic Pipeline has made its Nea Mesimvria connection with Greece physically bidirectional, linking TAP with the Greek gas system. From Oct. 1, the Nea Mesimvria point can operate as both an entry and exit point between TAP and Greek transmission operator DESFA. The change allows gas already in the Greek network, including supply originating from LNG terminals, to potentially flow into TAP when market conditions and capacity permit.
Previously, the Nea Mesimvria connection functioned primarily as a delivery point from TAP into Greece. The physical bidirectional capability changes how the interconnection can be used between the two systems. From Oct. 1, it can support flows in both directions at the Nea Mesimvria interface.
The new operating mode means gas inside the Greek network, including LNG-linked supply, can potentially move into TAP subject to market conditions and available capacity. This expands routing optionality across Greek LNG infrastructure, TAP, Albania, and Italy. It also adds another potential route for LNG-linked supply into the trans-Adriatic network.
Regional hub role and market interaction
The development is described as commercially important as Greece strengthens its role as a regional gas hub. LNG imports through Greece are increasingly moving north into Bulgaria and other Balkan markets, while TAP remains a major corridor for Azerbaijani gas towards Europe. Bidirectional operation enables those pipeline and LNG-linked systems to interact more flexibly.
Physical flexibility is not stated to necessarily lower prices. Instead, it provides traders with more routing options and supports Greece as a more active balancing point between regional supply sources. It also strengthens competition between pipeline gas and LNG.