Italian energy firm Edison and Türkiye’s state-owned pipeline operator BOTAŞ have signed an agreement to develop a potential hydrogen-compatible pipeline linking the two countries, signaling growing momentum behind Mediterranean clean energy infrastructure.

The companies signed a memorandum of understanding during the Istanbul Natural Resources Summit, an event attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and regional energy officials.

Under the agreement, Edison and BOTAŞ will establish a Joint Working Group to evaluate the technical, commercial, and regulatory feasibility of a future hydrogen-ready interconnector between Türkiye and Italy.

According to the agreement, the working group will also assess broader opportunities for natural gas and liquefied natural gas supply cooperation.

The pipeline discussions reflect a shifting strategy across Europe and the Mediterranean, where governments are increasingly re-evaluating traditional fossil-fuel corridors for future hydrogen transport.

This dual-use approach aims to preserve energy security while preventing existing infrastructure from becoming stranded assets as the continent pursues decarbonization targets.

Türkiye already serves as a critical transit hub for European gas through major networks like the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, which transports Azerbaijani gas into southern Europe and lands in Italy. A future hydrogen-capable corridor could build upon this existing regional network.

For BOTAŞ, the partnership advances Ankara's ambition to expand LNG imports and solidify Türkiye's status as a primary energy hub connecting Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Milan-based Edison remains a dominant player in Mediterranean gas trading and cross-border infrastructure.

The agreement underscores a broader geographical shift in European hydrogen planning, which is moving beyond northern industrial corridors into southern transit routes.

Policymakers increasingly view the Mediterranean as a vital gateway for future hydrogen and ammonia imports from North Africa and the Middle East.

While the pipeline remains in the preliminary feasibility phase, the creation of a dedicated working group marks a shift from broad political intent to detailed technical assessments.

European governments view hydrogen-ready infrastructure as a strategic hedge, allowing them to secure stable gas supplies today while preparing for long-term low-carbon fuel transport.