Bulgaria’s Vertical Gas Corridor: A Modern Energy Landscape for Southeastern Europe
What began as a concept in 2015 is rapidly becoming a reality: the Vertical Gas Corridor is taking shape, with Bulgaria at the forefront of construction. The project, supported by Greece, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Hungary, and Slovakia, aims to significantly enhance energy security and transit capacity in the region.
Progress and Current Status
As of late October 2025, approximately 50 kilometers of the gas corridor have been completed. More specifically, around 50 kilometers of pipeline have been laid, with 25 kilometers already welded and 7 kilometers buried. Despite some delays due to weather conditions, work continues daily utilizing advanced technologies and robotic welding techniques.
The corridor is designed to double the transit capacity of gas between Bulgaria and Romania, increasing it from 5 to 10 billion cubic meters annually. This expansion is occurring even before the full completion of the system’s upgrades.
Recent Capacity Sales and Investment
“Bulgartransgaz,” Bulgaria’s state gas operator, has already sold over twice the capacity at the connection point between Bulgaria and Romania (Kardam-Negru Voda) for the next gas year, starting October 1, 2025. This demonstrates strong market interest in the increased capacity. Revenue from these capacity sales has exceeded 70 million leva.
Political and Economic Implications
The project has garnered praise for its rapid progress. Former Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov highlighted Bulgaria’s leading role, stating the country was the first to initiate construction on the corridor.
However, concerns have been raised regarding Bulgaria’s existing gas agreements. Former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov criticized the current government’s potential renegotiation of the contract with Turkish company “Botash,” suggesting it could jeopardize Bulgaria’s position. He alleges that the current administration is giving Turkey leverage, despite Bulgaria’s reliance on the Greek connection for gas supply.
Lukoil and Future Supply
Borissov also addressed the situation with “Lukoil,” noting that the company has reserves until April. He pointed out the upcoming expiration of derogations with the US and the UK in April and August, respectively, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, which could impact future supply.
Potential for Increased Capacity
The infrastructure in Bulgaria is expected to be fully constructed by October 1, 2026, after which the increased capacity will be offered in the next annual tender. The Vertical Gas Corridor unites nine gas operators from seven countries – Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Moldova – and is poised to reshape the energy landscape of Southeastern Europe.
FAQ
What is the Vertical Gas Corridor?
It’s a project connecting gas systems across seven Southeastern European countries to enhance energy security and transit capacity.
What is Bulgaria’s role in the project?
Bulgaria is leading the construction of the corridor and is the first country to begin building it.
What is the expected increase in gas transit capacity?
The corridor will double the transit capacity between Bulgaria and Romania, from 5 to 10 billion cubic meters annually.
What are the concerns surrounding the “Botash” contract?
There are concerns that renegotiating the contract with “Botash” could give Turkey undue leverage over Bulgaria’s gas supply.
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Did you know? The Vertical Gas Corridor is supported by the United States, highlighting its strategic importance for regional energy security.
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