In a move with significant geopolitical and energy implications, Atlantic SEE LNG Trade S.A., the joint venture owned by AKTOR Group (60%) and DEPA Commercial (40%), announced the expansion of its long-term Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Sales and Purchase Agreement with Venture Global, one of the leading U.S. LNG exporters.
Under the revised agreement, Atlantic SEE LNG Trade will double its contracted LNG volumes, increasing from a minimum of 0.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 1 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The volume corresponds to approximately 1.3 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, with deliveries commencing in 2030 and extending over a 20-year period.
The agreement marks a major milestone in the company’s long-term supply strategy while reinforcing a diversified and reliable energy framework for the markets of Southeast and Central Europe.
From Strategic Vision to Tangible Delivery
Commenting on the agreement, Konstantinos Xifaras, Chairman of Atlantic SEE LNG Trade and CEO of DEPA Commercial, emphasized the strategic significance of the expansion.
“The extension of this long-term LNG agreement marks the transition from vision to implementation. By doubling the secured volumes under this contract, we are strengthening a reliable supply framework capable of meeting the evolving energy needs of the region,” he stated.
According to Mr. Xifaras, the agreement plays a critical role in enhancing the diversification of Europe’s energy supply sources while improving the resilience of the continent’s energy system through access to additional LNG volumes from the United States.
He also highlighted that Greece now possesses both the infrastructure and the strategic partnerships required to operate as a major gateway for U.S. LNG entering Southeast and Central Europe, supporting secure and stable energy flows for years to come.
AKTOR Strengthens a New Energy Corridor for Europe
For Alexandros Exarchou, CEO of Atlantic SEE LNG Trade and Chairman and CEO of AKTOR Group, the agreement represents far more than a commercial transaction.
“The expansion of our commercial agreement with Venture Global reflects both the ambition and the strong foundations of our long-term LNG strategy, as well as the significant opportunities created by the Vertical Corridor to strengthen energy security and diversify supply sources across Central and Eastern Europe,” he noted.
His remarks underscore the growing importance of the Vertical Corridor, a strategic European initiative designed to facilitate the northbound flow of natural gas from Southern Europe to Central and Eastern European markets. The project is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone of Europe’s efforts to enhance energy independence and supply flexibility.
In this context, AKTOR’s investment in LNG is not merely a business expansion—it is a strategic contribution to the development of a new energy corridor capable of supporting Europe’s energy security objectives over the coming decades.
A Deepening U.S.–Greece Energy Partnership
The agreement also reflects the steadily expanding energy partnership between Greece and the United States.
At a time when the European Union continues to prioritize diversification of energy sources and supply routes, long-term LNG contracts have become increasingly valuable strategic assets. They provide not only supply security but also market predictability, helping governments, utilities, and industries plan for future energy needs with greater confidence.
The doubling of LNG volumes secured through Venture Global reinforces the role of transatlantic energy cooperation as a key pillar of Europe’s energy resilience strategy.
AKTOR’s Expanding Energy Footprint
The transaction aligns with AKTOR Group’s broader strategic transformation and growing presence across critical sectors of the energy economy.
Drawing on nearly 70 years of experience, AKTOR has evolved into one of Southeast Europe’s leading business groups, delivering major infrastructure projects while expanding investments in LNG, renewable energy, concessions and PPPs, real estate, and integrated facilities management.
Its participation in Atlantic SEE LNG Trade reflects a forward-looking approach that combines infrastructure expertise with long-term energy investments, supporting both economic growth and regional energy stability.
DEPA Commercial’s €250 Million Investment Strategy
At the same time, DEPA Commercial is implementing an ambitious transformation strategy supported by an investment program exceeding €250 million for the 2025–2028 period.
The company’s investment focus includes energy infrastructure, power generation assets, and renewable energy projects, while simultaneously expanding its international footprint in natural gas and LNG markets.
Through initiatives such as the Vertical Corridor and other cross-border energy projects, DEPA Commercial is strengthening Greece’s position as a critical contributor to European energy security and regional market integration.
A New Chapter in Europe’s Energy Landscape
The expansion of the Atlantic SEE LNG Trade–Venture Global partnership is another clear indication that Greece is evolving from a transit country into a strategic energy hub with growing regional influence.
Supported by modern infrastructure, long-term international partnerships, and ambitious private-sector investment, the country is increasingly positioned to play a leading role in Europe’s emerging energy architecture.
Through Atlantic SEE LNG Trade, AKTOR and DEPA Commercial are helping shape a more secure, diversified, and resilient energy future for Southeast and Central Europe—one built on strategic cooperation, infrastructure strength, and long-term vision.
Source: pagenews.gr