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The controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline could soon be commissioned. On Monday, gas was filled into a string for the first time.
Zug – The controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline has overcome the next hurdle on the way to commissioning. The construction of the German-Russian gas pipeline had already been completed at the beginning of September. On Monday (October 4), Nord Stream 2 AG announced the filling of a first section of the Baltic Sea pipeline with gas. This initial filling is necessary before the actual gas transport can start.
“The line is now gradually being filled with gas and the necessary pressure built up. This is a prerequisite for subsequent technical tests, ”informed the operator. The pipeline had previously been subjected to extensive technical tests. The inside of the pipe was examined with measuring devices, so-called pigs, as well as the pipe string from the outside by means of a visual inspection. According to the company, technical preparations are already underway for a second strand.
Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline filled with gas: Controversial project could begin soon
Nord Stream 2 AG did not provide any information about the planned time of the actual commissioning. Experts anticipate that gas could be delivered through the new pipeline from Russia * to Germany * in October. Gazprom plans to pump 5.6 billion cubic meters of gas through Nord Stream 2 this year. The 1230-kilometer pipeline, which has two strands, is expected to deliver 55 billion cubic meters of gas annually. According to the operating company, this can supply 26 million households.
However, the certification of German authorities is still missing for the commissioning. This is about recognizing Nord Stream 2 AG as an independent transport network operator in accordance with an EU directive. If Nord Stream 2 starts transporting gas before this process is completed, the Federal Network Agency could initiate administrative offense proceedings and impose fines. The authority has until the beginning of January to make a decision.
The Nord Stream 1 pipeline, which runs largely in parallel, has been partially in operation since 2011 and fully in operation since 2012. According to the operator, it was used to transport 59.2 billion cubic meters of natural gas in 2020. (sf / dpa / AFP) * merkur.de is an offer from IPPEN.MEDIA