Bernau-Szczecin gas pipeline: an alternative gas supply source

21.1.2015

Question for written answer E-000772-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Karol Karski (ECR)

The Bernau-Szczecin gas pipeline will form part of a strategic section of the West-East gas corridor. The planned pipeline would start in the Police area in Poland, where a number of chemical plants, which would be obvious customers for gas from the new pipeline, are located. The pipeline would be 15 kilometres long, and 85% of it would run through Germany. It would have a capacity of 5 billion cubic metres of gas.

The pipeline would be connected up to the German gas network, which has significant surplus transmission capacity. As a result of its substantial transmission capacity, Germany is in a strong bargaining position on the gas market and is therefore able to secure competitive prices.

1. Can any support be provided for this project, which would break Poland's dependence on Russia for gas supplies? If so, what form of support?

2. What practical, systemic measures can be taken to lessen EU Member States' dependence on Russia for energy supplies?

3. What is the Commission doing to enhance security of gas supply for Member States?