Extended Vertical Gas Corridor extends special capacity products to support Greek-to-Ukraine flows

Efforts to strengthen gas flows toward Eastern Europe have been bolstered through the extension of special capacity products along the Vertical Gas Corridor. The updated arrangement keeps in place the ability to transport natural gas from Greece to Ukraine via designated routes, with the framework running until September 2026—an element designed to support stability in cross-border energy flows.

Monthly auctions for predictable access

Under the current framework, capacity auctions will continue on a monthly basis. They are typically scheduled midweek shortly after the third Monday, providing market participants with a recurring mechanism to secure transport capacity. The structure is intended to promote transparency and more efficient allocation within the regional gas market.

Route 3 links Greece, the Balkans and onward supply

A central transit option is Route 3. It enables gas entering the Greek system—whether via the DESFA network, through the virtual trading hub, or from the Revythoussa LNG terminal—to move northward. From the Nea Mesimvria entry point, volumes can be redirected via reverse flow along the Trans-Adriatic (TAP) pipeline, supporting supply into the Balkans and further onward toward Ukraine.

The route is built around multiple capacity products across platforms, including interruptible exit capacity and commercial reverse flow services. These are coordinated through established European trading systems, reflecting how corridor operations rely on aligning different product types to move gas efficiently across borders.

Revised tariffs aim to improve competitiveness

To enhance how effectively the corridor functions, transmission system operators and interconnector operator ICGB have aligned with the European Commission on a revised tariff structure. The stated objective is to make the route more competitive and attractive within the broader European gas network.

Implications for regional flexibility and diversification

Overall, extending the corridor’s special capacity products is expected to preserve flexibility in regional gas supply while reinforcing diversification efforts across Southeastern and Eastern Europe. For investors and market participants who depend on cross-border transport optionality, maintaining a defined framework through September 2026—and pairing it with regular auctions and tariff changes—can help sustain planning confidence as demand patterns and sourcing strategies evolve.