Greece has launched its largest recent natural gas expansion with the inauguration of a high-pressure, hydrogen-ready transmission pipeline in the Western Macedonia region.

Launched on Tuesday, May 27, the 157-kilometer (97-mile) pipeline crosses Central Macedonia and terminates in Kardia, near Kozani.

Developed by the Operator of the Greek National Natural Gas System, known as DESFA, the project was completed with a total budget of 188 million euros (about $204 million).

Company executives and government officials gathered in the village of Perdikkas for the opening ceremony. The event was led by Despina Paliarouta and DESFA Chief Executive Maria Sferruzza, alongside local authorities and energy sector representatives.

The new infrastructure brings natural gas to regions of Western and Central Macedonia that were previously entirely isolated from the national network.

Beyond expanding household and commercial energy access, the pipeline is designed to supply a critical infrastructure shift in the region's energy sector.

Terminating at Kardia, where the Public Power Corp., or PPC, is constructing a new combined heat and power unit, this unit will assume the responsibility of supporting regional district heating systems that supply the municipal areas of Kozani, Ptolemaida, and Amyntaio.

According to DESFA, the Western Macedonia pipeline is also built with a view toward future clean energy transitions. The pipeline consists of steel pipes designed to transport up to 100% hydrogen, ensuring the infrastructure can accommodate a shift to zero-carbon gases.

Western Macedonia has historically served as Greece's heavy-industry lignite mining hub. The pipeline represents a transitional step in the nation's efforts to move away from coal-fired power generation while maintaining energy security and continuous heating for local communities.