Underground gas storage facility Chiren is over 90% full, according to gas transmission system operator Bulgartransgaz. Executive Director Vladimir Malinov said that it is the first time ever Chiren has been that full at this time of the year.
-The natural gas volumes injected will contribute significantly to ensuring security of supply in the coming autumn-winter season and will be of strategic importance for the development of the natural gas market in the region, Malinov added.
EU member states are required to have their gas storage facilities 90% full by November 1.
Bulgartransgaz will invest around 285 million euros in the expansion of Chiren, which is the only natural gas storage facility in Bulgaria. Storage capacity is expected to grow from 550 million to 1 billion cubic meters. The capacity to withdraw and supply natural gas to the network will be increased to 8-10 million cubic meters.
Earlier in August, the European Commission approved 16 million euros support for the expansion of the Chiren gas storage facility.
