The TurkStream pipeline will transport 31.5 billion cubic meters per year (Bcm/y) of Russian gas. The first pieces of the offshore/onshore infrastructure will meet Turkish demand and the second will supply south and southeastern Europe.
The launch was described by Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller as a historic event. “Firstly, taking into account the Blue Stream export, the road is now open for direct, transit-free deliveries of all Gazprom’s gas, which Turkey needs. And secondly, Europe received a new, reliable route for the supply of Russian pipeline gas,” he said.
“Gas will go to Europe in the second branch, including Bulgaria, Serbia, and Greece. This will be of great importance, not only for the economy of the Black Sea region, but will also have a positive impact on the development of southern European countries,” noted Putin.
He added “in the future, Russia and Turkey will implement other ambitious projects in the energy and other sectors of the economy, for the benefit of our neighbors and partners.”
Turkey has been importing Russian gas for three decades, first via the Trans-Balkan pipeline, and then by the direct Blue Stream line. Imports last year reached 24 Bcm, according to Putin.
The new export route to Europe comes amid a delay on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, as construction was halted by U.S. sanctions on contractors. Flows to Europe have already started, Bulgarian gas operator Bulgartransgaz said Jan. 5.
The pipeline, owned by Gazprom and Botas, is estimated to have cost $8 billion.
