Poland's state-run gas transmission operator, Gaz-System, is proceeding with plans to add a second floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) at the Baltic Port of Gdansk with a capacity of 4.5 billion cubic metres per annum. This unit would be installed adjacent to the first FSRU, which has a 6.1 Bcm per annum capacity and is slated for operation in early 2028.

Market Demand Assessment

A recent non-binding market screening exercise, or open season, conducted in September revealed potential demand significantly exceeding planned capacity. Fourteen domestic and foreign companies indicated mid-term demand for regasification services could peak at around 18 Bcm per annum between 2031 and 2032, which is more than four times the 4.5 Bcm capacity of the planned second unit. Despite this strong indication, Gaz-System does not anticipate increasing the capacity beyond the original plan.

Cautious Approach and Next Steps

The operator is maintaining a cautious stance, noting that demand declared in non-binding phases often does not materialize in subsequent binding orders. Gaz-System is currently in dialogue with interested parties to thoroughly investigate the provided information. A final investment decision on the second FSRU will only be made after the completion of a binding open season procedure. The company stated that the high demand justifies further development of the LNG terminal in the Gulf of Gdansk.

Project Background and Current Status

The development of a second unit was temporarily shelved in 2023 due to insufficient market interest at that time. However, construction of the onshore terminal and supporting infrastructure for the first FSRU continued, with an option to quickly accommodate a second unit. The first stage of offshore work, scheduled for completion in 2025, has already been finished, while onshore work is ongoing.

Quality Assurance and Procurement

During construction, welding non-conformities were detected in the first two batches of anchor piles manufactured in Algeria. A third batch from the same country met quality requirements. The operator asserts this issue does not affect project implementation, expenditure, or the quality of the infrastructure. Gaz-System is now procuring another batch of anchor piles from a European supplier.

Strategic Context

Upon completion, the Gdansk terminal will become Poland's second LNG import facility, complementing the existing terminal in the Baltic port of Swinoujscie.