Hungary and Romania Boost Gas Pipeline Capacity

Hungary and Romania have increased the capacity of their cross-border gas interconnector to 2.7 bcm/year, marking an important step toward energy diversification in Central and Eastern Europe.

Key Facts

-         In 2024, 1.8 bcm flowed through the interconnector.

-         The upgrade allows bidirectional flows, enhancing flexibility.

-         Hungary still receives 8.5 bcm annually via the TurkStream route and expects similar volumes in 2025.

-         Romania aims to launch production at Neptun Deep in 2027, positioning itself as a future regional supplier.

IDR Analytical Commentary

This upgrade strengthens the emerging integrated energy architecture in Central and Eastern Europe, where Romania’s offshore gas reserves may significantly reduce regional dependence on Russian energy.

For Hungary, the interconnector provides:

-         an alternative to long-term Gazprom contracts,

-         enhanced resilience through multiple supply routes,

-         greater bargaining power in future energy negotiations.

For Romania, this means:

• entering the market as a net energy exporter,
• strengthening its strategic role in EU energy security,
• contributing to a more resilient Danube–Black Sea macro-region.

For Ukraine and the broader Lower Danube region, the development opens opportunities for:

• cross-border energy cooperation,
• integration into EU energy corridors,
• improving regional energy security.