Latvia currently has no need for its own liquefied natural gas terminal, said Minister of Climate and Energy Kaspars Melnis in an interview to LTV programme Rīta panorāma.
He said he sees no need for such a terminal in Latvia at the moment. According to him, the output from neighbouring countries is enough.
“Yes, we can build our own terminal, but someone will have to foot the bill for it,” he added.
He also mentioned that the Inčukalns underground gas storage facility is currently 88.6% full. Nevertheless, the gas pumping season still continues.
The minister said the gas storage facility currently holds 20.2 TWh of gas. Latvia consumes an average of 12-14 TWh every heating season.
“This means we are fully prepared for winter,” said Melnis.
At the same time, he mentioned Latvia has a long-term contract signed with Lithuania’s terminal, adding that cooperation continues with Estonian colleagues to enlist help from Paldiski terminal if such a need surfaces.
“At the moment, the terminals active in the region are sufficient. This means the question of whether or not we should build our own terminal should be viewed purely financially,” said Melnis.
On Friday, the 15th of September, the Seaima approved the new Cabinet of Ministers under Prime Minister Evika Siliņa. The new ruling coalition in Latvia consists of New Unity, Progressive Party and the Union of Greens and Farmers.
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