Natural gas transported via the Türkiye–Syria Natural Gas Pipeline has now reached the Cender Gas Plant in Homs province, marking a significant step in regional energy cooperation. The gas will next be directed from Cender to the Nasiriyah and Tishreen thermal power plants near the capital Damascus, aiming to boost Syria’s electricity production capacity.
The official valve-opening ceremony was attended by Syrian Deputy Energy Minister Ghayyas Diab and Homs Governor Abdulrahman al-Ama. Speaking to reporters, Diab confirmed that Azerbaijani natural gas, delivered through Türkiye, had successfully arrived at the Cender station.
Boosting Electricity Generation
The pipeline, with a maximum capacity of 3.4 million cubic meters per day, is currently transporting 1.4 million cubic meters daily — enough to generate approximately 250 megawatts of electricity. According to Diab, this flow marks a strategic milestone in linking the Arab Gas Pipeline to the Republic of Türkiye, enabling Syria to integrate its electricity grid with neighboring countries and strengthening domestic stability.
Once gas reaches all targeted thermal power plants, Syria’s daily electricity supply is expected to rise to five hours. A forthcoming agreement, projecting an increased delivery capacity of 6 million cubic meters per day, could extend household electricity availability to eight hours.
Strategic and Regional Impact
The Deputy Energy Minister emphasized that this project is not only about boosting domestic power generation but also about fostering regional energy integration. By connecting with Türkiye through the Arab Gas Pipeline, Syria aims to benefit from improved energy trade, shared infrastructure, and increased cooperation with surrounding nations.
The first delivery of gas from Türkiye to Syria began on August 2, when Azerbaijani gas was transmitted via the Türkiye–Syria pipeline through the Kilis border. This development is seen as an important step toward stabilizing Syria’s energy supply after years of shortages.
