The Trans Adriatic Pipeline has made its Nea Mesimvria connection with Greece physically bidirectional, increasing flexibility between TAP and the Greek gas transmission system and creating another potential route for LNG-linked gas to enter the trans-Adriatic network.
From October 1, the Nea Mesimvria connection can operate as both an entry and exit point between TAP and Greece’s transmission system operator DESFA. Previously, the connection was used primarily to deliver gas from TAP into the Greek market.
The change means gas already available within the Greek transmission network, including volumes originating from LNG terminals, can potentially flow into TAP when market conditions and available capacity allow.
This creates greater routing flexibility between Greek LNG infrastructure, TAP, Albania and Italy, strengthening the ability of regional gas markets to respond to changing supply and demand conditions.
The development comes as Greece continues to strengthen its position as a regional gas hub. LNG imports through Greek terminals are increasingly supplying markets further north, including Bulgaria and other Southeast European countries, while TAP remains a key route for Azerbaijani gas entering European markets.
Bidirectional operation gives the two systems greater ability to interact and allows gas flows to respond more efficiently to market signals. It also increases the potential for competition between pipeline gas and LNG-linked supply.
Physical flexibility does not automatically translate into lower gas prices. However, additional flow options can give traders greater freedom to optimise supply routes, respond to price differences and manage regional imbalances.
The upgraded connection also strengthens Greece’s role as a potential balancing point between different sources of regional gas supply, particularly as Southeast European markets seek to diversify away from dependence on individual supply routes.
As the region moves towards more diversified and portfolio-based gas trading, infrastructure capable of operating in both directions is becoming increasingly valuable. The Nea Mesimvria upgrade adds another layer of flexibility to the Southern European gas network and could support more dynamic interaction between LNG, pipeline imports and regional demand centres.
