Eastern Macedonia and Thrace become an energy crossroad for Southeast Europe with DESFA’s investments in the region set to exceed €0.5 billion
Komotini, 4 November 2025 – Today, DESFA inaugurated the Komotini Compressor Station, a landmark project that strengthens Greece’s role as a strategic energy gateway while reinforcing the Vertical Gas Corridor. The inauguration was honored with the presence of the Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy, Nikos Tsafos, the Regional Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Christodoulos Topsides, the General Secretary for Industry, Eleftherios Kritikos, as well as leading representatives of the Greek and regional energy market.
Located at the Komotini Industrial Zone, the new Compressor Station adds a key infrastructure to the dynamically evolving energy infrastructure network of Southeastern Europe, playing a crucial role in enhancing energy security and diversifying natural gas supply sources in the region. With a total capacity of 24.6 MW through the operation of three compression units (and one in standby mode), the station is the first electric-powered natural gas compression station in Greece, achieving zero emissions during its operation and utilizing cutting-edge technologies to ensure operational flexibility and the hydraulic adequacy of the system. It also has the ability to accommodate natural gas and hydrogen blends.
The Komotini Compressor Station significantly strengthens the Vertical Corridor, as along with other projects, including the Compressor Station of Ampelia, it enables Greece’s natural gas exports to the North to reach 8.5 billion cubic meters annually. Developed during the energy crisis in response to the need to enable increased gas flows to the North, the project seamlessly connects with other key energy infrastructures in the area — such as the FSRU Alexandroupolis and the wider national transmission system— enhancing cross-border connectivity, exports to neighboring countries and the resilience and flexibility of the country’s energy infrastructure.
Driven by DESFA’s continuous investment —set to exceed €0.5 billion —Eastern Macedonia and Thrace transform into a true energy crossroad for Greece and Southeast Europe, supporting Europe’s energy security and diversification. The Komotini Compressor Station represents a €134 million investment, adding to a series of projects of approx. €43 million recently completed by DESFA in Komotini and Alexandroupolis, while other planned projects including the Karperi–Komotini pipeline, currently under development, adds an additional €334 million.
Speaking at the inauguration, Maria Rita Galli, CEO of DESFA, said: “Today’s inauguration marks a defining moment for DESFA and for Southeast Europe’s energy landscape. By enhancing Greece’s export capacity and reinforcing the Vertical Gas Corridor, we strengthen energy security and diversification for millions of citizens.
Conceived, developed and constructed in record time during the energy crisis, also thanks to fast-track collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy and the Regulator (RAΑEY), the Komotini Compressor Station stands as a testament to DESFA’s ability to respond swiftly, reliably, and effectively to evolving system needs. In doing so, we enhance the resilience and flexibility of Greece’s energy infrastructure but also broaden our economic footprint—driving employment, stimulating local economies, and actively promoting sustainable growth.
With zero emissions during its operation and hydrogen-ready design, the station also looks to the future, ensuring our infrastructure supports Europe’s transition to cleaner energy. We remain committed to building tomorrow’s energy system while securing today tangible benefits for both Greek consumers and the wider region. We continue putting energy in motion when and where is needed.”
