Energy regulators from five countries have approved a new framework for gas transit capacity linking Greece with Ukraine, paving the way for coordinated cross-border capacity auctions through the end of April 2026. The decision follows a joint proposal submitted by the transmission system operators of Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Ukraine and Moldova, aimed at strengthening regional gas flows.
Under the approved framework, regulators authorized the introduction of two additional capacity products — Route 2 and Route 3 — which will complement the existing Route 1 corridor. All three routes will be marketed simultaneously, enabling shippers to book bundled capacity across the entire transit chain from Greece northward, improving operational efficiency and market access.
The first auction under the expanded structure is scheduled for 22 December 2025 and will cover capacity for January gas deliveries. By offering the three routes in parallel, transmission system operators seek to enhance market transparency, increase trading flexibility, and boost the attractiveness of the regional gas corridor for market participants.
In parallel, regulators also endorsed a technical optimization proposed by Bulgartransgaz. The adjustment allows unused capacity at the Ruse–Giurgiu interconnection point to be reallocated to the Negru Voda 1–Kardam entry-exit point, effectively increasing the overall throughput potential of the three-route system.
The approvals are expected to support more reliable gas flows toward Ukraine and neighboring markets, reinforcing regional supply security at a time of elevated demand for diversified transit options across southeastern and eastern Europe.
Route 1 runs from Kulata/Sidirokastro through Negru Voda 1/Kardam, Isaccea/Orlivka, Causeni, and ends at Grebeniki.
Route 2 connects Amfitriti to Komotini, continues via Stara Zagora, Negru Voda 1/Kardam, Isaccea/Orlivka, Causeni, and terminates at Grebeniki.
Route 3 starts in Komotini, passes through Stara Zagora, Negru Voda 1/Kardam, Isaccea/Orlivka, Causeni, and concludes at Grebeniki.
