**Ukraine and Poland Boost Gas Interconnector Capacity**
In a move to strengthen their energy ties, Ukraine’s Energy Ministry announced that the gas transmission system operators of Poland and Ukraine will double the capacity of their interconnector. This will allow for the transportation of 12.4 million cubic meters of gas per day, up from the current 6.4 million.
The Polish route is a crucial link in Ukraine’s gas import strategy, providing access to diverse sources of natural gas, including liquefied gas from around the world. With Russia’s ongoing conflict, Ukraine is seeking to diversify its energy supplies and reduce its reliance on Russian imports. This expansion will enable Ukraine to meet its growing demand for natural gas, particularly ahead of the heating season.
**Upgrades to Ensure Stable Capacity**
To ensure stable capacity, the Polish company Gaz-System will carry out a reconstruction project at the Hermanowice gas metering station. This upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 or early 2026 and may cost around $2.12 million (8 million zloty).
**Cooperation in LNG Sector**
Ukraine’s state energy firm, Naftogaz, has already agreed to cooperate with Polish refiner Orlen in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector. In fact, Naftogaz has purchased 300 million cubic meters of LNG from Orlen, further solidifying their partnership.
**A Deeper Look**
The expansion of the gas interconnector capacity is a significant step towards strengthening Ukraine’s energy security. By diversifying its gas imports and reducing reliance on Russian supplies, Ukraine can mitigate the risks associated with ongoing conflicts. This move also underscores the importance of cooperation between countries in the face of global challenges.
**What’s Next?**
As Ukraine continues to develop its energy strategy, it will be interesting to see how this expansion impacts the regional energy landscape. Will other countries follow suit and invest in their own gas interconnectors? The answers to these questions will become clearer as we move forward into 2026.
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