Following multiple consultations with the European Commission (EC), the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator TSO (DESFA), along with the other 5 operators of the strategic Vertical Gas Corridor initiative, agreed on the commercial promotion of the project.

The agreement, signed in Athens on Friday, marks a milestone for the wider region in an ever-shifting energy environment, as it provides a reliable and competitive energy route linking southeastern Europe with central Europe.

The deal, which is fully compliant with EU regulations and with a transparent pricing framework, is hailed as a step toward a long-term solution for secure gas transportation and energy independence for Europe.

According to the agreement, the TSOs involved in the ambitious project, BULGARTRANSGAZ (Bulgaria), TRANSGAZ (Romania), VESTMOLDTRANSGAZ (Moldova), GTSOU (Ukraine), and independent ICGB, will provide a full range of costing services on a daily, monthly, tri-monthly, and yearly rate.

The pricing approach significantly enhances the attractiveness of the products on offer, while providing users with improved cost visibility and the ability to engage in long-term energy planning.

Through this framework, the Southern Gas Corridor is consolidating its position as a critical energy supply route for the region and a vital instrument for strengthening Europe’s diversification and energy security.

For the transitional period ahead of the full implementation of the new products, the operators are requesting that competent national regulatory authorities extend the availability of existing products through October 2026, in order to support Ukraine’s security of supply during the transition.