West Macedonia pipeline will be the first high-pressure transmission gas pipeline in Greece, certified to transport up to 100% hydrogen and one of the first in Europe. It is part of the European Hydrogen Backbone, Europe’s hydrogen infrastructure needed to achieve its climate and energy objectives.

In compliance with specification ASME B31.12 Option B, Corinth Pipeworks & DESFA cooperation provides a technically and economically feasible solution for the safe transportation of hydrogen at high pressures through large diameter/high strength steel pipelines. Thus, pipes produced today and installed in the current gas network can cover the energy mix of tomorrow.

The contract awarded to Corinth Pipeworks, from DESFA, the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator, relates to the development of a natural gas pipeline covering the country’s northern region of West Macedonia and paving the way for the country’s gas grid development. It comprises of 163 km coated steel pipes (97km of LSAW 30’’ and 66km of ERW 14” and 10”). Corinth Pipeworks’ proposal was evaluated as being the most advantageous for DESFA.

The entire quantity of hydrogen certified pipes will be manufactured in Corinth Pipeworks’ plant in Thisvi, Greece. Deliveries are planned to start by H2 2022 and conclude by H1 2023.

"We are very happy to work together with Corinth Pipeworks, one of the world's leading manufacturers of steel pipes and hollow sections for our industry, on the construction of the new pipeline in Western Macedonia. DESFA has an active role in the development of the hydrogen market, working intensively to ensure that our network is 100%-ready for the transport and storage of renewable gases, such as hydrogen and biomethane”, said Maria Rita Galli, CEO of DESFA.

“With hydrogen playing an important role in the energy transition, we trust the expertise and valuable experience of Corinth Pipeworks for the flagship project of the West Macedonia pipeline that will pave the way for cleaner energy sources with significant benefits for the environment, local communities and the national economy”, commented Ioannis Chomatas, Asset Development Division Director of DESFA.

"We are proud to contribute with our innovative technical progress on hydrogen to the establishment of DESFA’s hydrogen network towards the green transition of Greece. We have built a long and trusted cooperation along with DESFA with a common goal to achieve the necessary level of reliability, in order for the Greek network to be certified for the use of hydrogen. West Macedonia pipeline will be ready when the production and use of hydrogen will start and excess H2 produced by renewable energy sources will be injected into the gas network”, said Ilias Bekiros, CEO of Corinth Pipeworks.

About DESFA

The Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA) S.A. is responsible for the operation, management, utilization and development of the National Natural Gas System and its interconnections, in a technically sound and economically efficient way, in order to best serve its Users with safety, reliability and adequacy.

About CORINTH Pipeworks

Corinth Pipeworks, steel pipe segment of Cenergy Holdings, is a leading steel pipe manufacturer for the global energy and construction sector. We have half a century of experience, the technological superiority and the pursuing excellence philosophy to deliver to our customers an overall high performance
With projects executed in more than 45 countries worldwide, we develop valuable solutions, exceed our customers’ expectations and create long term relationships based on mutual trust and respect. All this by combining experience, on time delivery, innovation and investments in the latest technology.