Gasgrid Finland and the Estonian gas transmission system operator Elering noticed an unusual drop in pressure in the Balticconnector offshore gas interconnection pipeline running between the countries in the early hours of October 8, 2023. The pipe section was isolated shortly after the discovery by closing Balticconnector’s valves. The gas leak caused by the verified damage in the pipe section halted with closing the valves and thus isolating Balticconnector. Currently, gas pipeline transmission between Finland and Estonia has been interrupted. The state of the Finnish gas system is stable, and supply of gas is secured via the Inkoo LNG terminal.
The repair works of the Balticconnector offshore pipeline started last week. Three ships operate in the reparation site, two of which are working on the actual repairs, while one ensures that the ice conditions at the repair site remain optimal. The works have progressed according to plans. The damaged pipe section has been removed and the remaining pipe section has been returned to its original location. In the next phase, the new prepared pipe is put in place and connected to the remaining pipe section. The ice conditions at the repair site have remained as desired, and the few ice floes drifting around the site have been successfully moved further away.
According to plans, the repair works will last until the beginning of April, after which the pipeline can be inspected and commissioned. Balticconnector’s estimated commissioning date is April 22, 2024, provided that the repair works, and commissioning of the pipeline proceeds as planned.
The state of Finland’s gas system is stable and the prerequisites for gas supply have been secured
The state of the Finnish gas system is stable, and the prerequisites for sufficient gas supply in terms of transmission capacity and capacities of alternative procurement channels are secured. Market players have been instructed to ensure the supply of gas needed by ordering it to the Inkoo or Hamina LNG terminal, so that the continuity of gas supply is secured during winter.
Gasgrid Finland will provide more information about the development of the situation on its website gasgrid.fi as soon as more information is available.
More information:
Janne Grönlund, SVP, Gasgrid Finland, +358 40 036 8825
