TAP pipeline seeks construction, pipe bids

ZUG, Switzerland, April 15 (UPI) -- The consortium managing the planned Trans-Adriatic Pipeline for Europe said Tuesday it is looking for pipe and engineering contracts for the project.

TAP said it is re-launching a procurement process for pipeline construction services and for steel pipes for the project.

"TAP has taken the decision to re-launch its procurement process, following a review of its strategy and schedule," the consortium said in a statement.

TAP is meant to add a layer of security to the European energy sector by tapping into the giant Shah Deniz II natural gas project off the coast of Azerbaijan. It would travel approximately 540 miles from the field before connecting to other pipelines to Europe.

First gas sales to Georgia and Turkey are expected by 2018. Sales to the broader European community are planned for 2019.

The project consortium is led by BP, the State Oil Co. of Azerbaijan Republic, and Norwegian energy company Statoil.