Czech Republic seeks long-term gas contract with Azerbaijan

The proposed long-term agreement would see Prague secure up to 2 billion cubic meters of gas annually starting later this decade.

The Czech Republic is moving closer to a significant new energy agreement with Azerbaijan, aiming to import up to 2 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year as part of efforts to diversify supply sources.

Industry and Trade Minister Karel Havlíček said during a visit to Azerbaijan that deliveries could begin between 2028 and 2029. While the contract has not yet been formally signed, Havlíček indicated that negotiations are advanced and the deal is effectively promised.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš also confirmed that the Czech energy group ČEZ is actively seeking additional gas supplies as the government seeks to secure long-term energy stability.

The planned imports would represent a notable share of Czech demand. According to the Energy Regulatory Office, the country consumed 7.2 billion cubic meters of gas last year, a rise of 6.5 percent compared to the previous year. Currently, Norway remains the Czech Republic’s main supplier, while liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments are largely sourced from the United States.

Havlíček said the annual cost of Azerbaijani gas could reach around 20 billion Czech crowns, depending on contract terms. He stressed that securing favorable pricing would likely require a long-term agreement lasting between 10 and 15 years.