Alexandroupolis LNG project among six EU award winners
The Alexandroupolis (Dedeağaç) Independent Natural Gas System has been recognized as one of six outstanding European Union-funded projects at the 2026 REGIOSTARS Awards, held in Brussels on Tuesday as part of the European Week of Regions and Cities.
The European Commission announced the awards on Wednesday, highlighting projects that demonstrate excellence in the use of EU cohesion policy funding to support regional development and deliver tangible benefits for communities.
More than €178 million in EU funding
The Alexandroupolis (Dedeağaç) LNG project received more than €178 million in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to support the development of a floating liquefied natural gas terminal near the city in northern Greece.
According to the European Commission, the facility strengthens energy connectivity and security of supply in southeastern Europe by enabling the import, storage and regasification of natural gas.
The terminal also supports the diversification of energy sources and reduces dependence on individual suppliers. Through its connections with regional gas networks, the project contributes to a more resilient and integrated European energy market.
274 projects competed for recognition
The 2026 REGIOSTARS Awards attracted 274 applications from across the EU, with a European jury of experts selecting 25 finalists across five categories reflecting key priorities of the bloc’s cohesion policy.
The shortlisted projects presented their final pitches to the jury during the European Week of Regions and Cities, held in Brussels from October 12 to 14.
The six winning projects were recognized for their contributions across areas including innovation, research, environmental restoration and social inclusion.
“From innovation and research to environmental restoration and social inclusion, this year's winners show how cohesion policy delivers concrete results where people live,” the European Commission said.
The awards highlight the role of EU-funded investments in strengthening regional economies, improving infrastructure and building more resilient and inclusive communities across Europe.
Source:AMNA