Algeria is preparing to temporarily reduce its gas deliveries to Spain via the Medgaz gas pipeline. This decision is due to planned maintenance work on this infrastructure linking the two Mediterranean countries.
Maintenance operations on the Medgaz gas pipeline began on 17 September 2024 and will continue until 27 September 2024. During this period, gas flows from Algeria are expected to be significantly reduced or even suspended at times. This work is essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of the pipeline, which has a capacity of approximately 10.5 billion cubic meters per year. The pipeline operator has informed all stakeholders, including customers and business partners, in advance of these temporary reductions.
Before the start of the works, a considerable decrease in Algerian gas flows had already been noted. By September 15, the volumes transported had fallen to 151 GWh/day, down from an average of 311 GWh/day observed at the beginning of the month. This reduction is attributed to the preparations necessary to ensure the safety of maintenance operations.
Operations on Medgaz would be less complex
The work mainly involves internal inspections and cleaning of the pipeline. To do this, devices called “pigs” will be used to clean the pipes and check their condition. These inspections are part of an ongoing maintenance program that began with the first inspection carried out last year. Medgaz officials specified that this year, the operations would be less complex thanks to previous cleanings. They also reassured that these operations will not hurt the environment. The inspection and cleaning of the pipeline will take place without harming the marine ecosystem or fishing activities in the region.
It should be noted that the energy relationship between Algeria and Spain is largely based on the Medgaz gas pipeline. The latter allows a direct supply of natural gas without going through third countries, which is crucial for Spain in its energy diversification strategy. Since the closure of the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, Medgaz has become the main route for the supply of Algerian gas.
However, following the announcement of this temporary reduction in flows, Spanish managers such as Enagรกs have not provided detailed information on the exact extent of the reduction or on the compensatory measures envisaged.