Avax - Gas Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria

AVAX built the IGB Gas Pipeline in Greece

In 2022, AVAX, under contract to ICGB, completed its scope on the Gas Interconnector Greece–Bulgaria (IGB). This strategic European energy project links Komotini (Greece) with Stara Zagora (Bulgaria), diversifying natural gas supply and strengthening regional energy security across Southeast Europe.

About AVAX

AVAX S.A. is a leading Greek engineering and construction group delivering large-scale energy and infrastructure projects across Europe and the Middle East. The company combines EPC capability, rigorous HSE practices, and advanced construction technologies to achieve safe, high-quality, and on-schedule delivery.

IGB Gas Pipeline (Greece Section)

The IGB Pipeline is a cross-border interconnector with a total route of ~182 km, of which ~31 km lie in Greece and the remainder in Bulgaria. Built with X65 steel, 32-inch diameter pipe and 11 mm wall thickness, the system ties into the DESFA network and TAP near Komotini, enabling Azeri gas and global LNG to reach Bulgaria and the wider region. AVAX executed the EPC contract for design, procurement, construction and commissioning of the interconnector, delivering the Greek section and cross-border facilities to commercial operation on 1 October 2022.

• Total interconnector length: ~182 km (approx. 31 km in Greece)
• Construction during the COVID-19 pandemic, handling severe supply chain disruptions and workforce illness to complete critical works efficiently.
• Engineered through challenging terrain in the Rhodope Mountains, including near a large dam, demanding specialized execution.
• Facilitated administrative coordination for finishing works like access roads and erosion control through ICGB-government taskforces.

AVAX implemented the PWT XCS automatic welding system on the IGB pipeline for ICGB, delivering automated, high-precision welding with consistent weld quality for this vital cross-border energy route.

This advanced gas pipeline in Greece secures diversified supply for Bulgaria and neighboring markets by connecting the Southern Gas Corridor and LNG import routes to the Balkan grid. By combining AVAX’s EPC expertise with automated welding, the IGB project enhances European energy resilience, supports local jobs and skills, and demonstrates Greece’s capacity to deliver world-class energy infrastructure.

References: AVAX – IGB Project Page · ICGB – AVAX construction update · Pipeline & Gas Journal – handover/Act 15 · European Commission – IGB launch (1 Oct 2022) · NS Energy – IGB overview