June launch for Greek gas trading platform

Greek system operator Desfa expects a gas trading platform to be launched in June next year, the firm told Argus.

The new platform will work in co-operation with the Hellenic Energy Exchange (Henex), which will operate the platform. It will only offer short-term products in the first phase.

Within-day, day-ahead, multi-day — gas for delivery in two or three days' time — and weekend products will probably be available shortly after launch, but the operator did not specify if all the products will be introduced at the same time. Near-curve products, including for front-month delivery, will be available at a later stage, Desfa said.

Greece currently has a virtual trading point and balancing platform, on which the system operator can buy and sell gas for balancing purposes.

Desfa expects the platform to be successful, with many shippers having already expressed interest and as Greece becomes more connected with its neighbours, which could enhance cross-border trade.

The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline — which started commercial operations last week, but has not yet delivered any gas — has connected Greece with Italy. And the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) route is expected to be completed by the end of next year, Greek energy minister Kostis Hatzidakis said in late September.

By Eleni Charisi