Israel approves expansion of natural gas exports to Egypt from Tamar field

Energy Minister Israel Katz says additional natural gas exports will boost state revenue and improve ties with Egypt, while domestic energy needs will not be affected

Israel on Wednesday gave approval for the expansion of natural gas exports to Egypt from the Tamar reservoir off the country’s Mediterranean coast.

“The step will increase the state’s revenues and strengthen the diplomatic relationship between Israel and Egypt,” said Energy Minister Israel Katz.

Katz said he authorized the expansion of gas exports to Egypt from the Tamar reservoir following the recommendation by Petroleum Commissioner Chen Bar Yosef and after ensuring that the supply of gas to the Israeli economy is guaranteed and meets the country’s energy security needs.

Katz signed a permit to allow for additional natural gas exports of about 3.5 billion cubic meters (bcm) annually over the next 11 years from the Tamar gas reservoir located some 90 kilometers (55 miles) west of Haifa in northern Israel. About one-third of the additional natural gas produced from the Tamar rig will be allocated to the domestic market, according to the ministry.

Overall, natural gas production from the Tamar field from 2026 will increase by 60%, or 6 bcm annually.

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