It is possible in 2025 to see the first research drilling, most likely in the area of ​​Crete, which will give us an original picture of potential hydrocarbon deposits. We are at a critical time, we expect the final investment decisions of the companies.

This was stated by Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy Alexandra Sedoukou speaking to Athens Energy Summit, describing the interest of the US and ExxonMobil US companies active in the country.

Concerning reports of a change in energy policy after the election of Trump, Ms Sedoukou said there was no differentiation in the stance of the Greek government, which has always said that natural gas is needed as a fuel – bridge to charcoal and as a factor in its restraint. cost of energy transition.

The director of the Greek Tar Giannis Pipeline Office said that the pipeline is increasing since 2026, which is currently 10 billion cubic meters a year, by an additional 1.2 billion. At the same time, a new market test is ongoing, repeated every two years, for possible further expansion. The pipeline carrying natural gas from Azerbaijan via Turkey and Greece to Europe has been operating since 2020 and covered 18 % of Greek gas echoes while in 2022 it supplies – through the interconnection of the Hellenic Pipeline – with 800m, cubic meters per year. Bulgaria.

DESFA Development and Strategy Director Michalis Thomadakis also said that he is underway with the respective administrators at the northern border to develop the required infrastructure for the transfer of natural gas through Greece to the North and West but also to North Affairs. and storage of carbon dioxide.