What is a SWAP?

• If GTS wishes to perform a SWAP, it will submit a request to this effect to one or more neighbouring network operators. Neighbouring network operators may also submit requests to GTS.
• A request is usually submitted one day in advance or during the day. Sometimes arrangements are made a long time in advance, e.g. in the event of planned work.
• Cooperating with a SWAP request is not compulsory for the network operator receiving the request.
• Application is only possible if there is no effect on the allocations to network users.
• In this way, the European network operators have developed an instrument which facilitates, among other things, security of supply , disaster handling and efficient gas transport. This is in line with article 6 of the network code on interoperability.

• A SWAP is used to redirect a gas flow, or part of a gas flow, to another network point when a bottleneck occurs while transporting gas (for example, in the event of a disaster, technical problems or maintenance).
• Gas transport can also be optimised through SWAPS by letting gas flows take a different route (network optimisation/cost-efficiency).

• The network operators will, at the request of one of the network operators, agree among themselves on a SWAP on a case-by-case basis. The scope and duration of the SWAP are, among other things, coordinated and communication agreements are made.
• General operational agreements have been made between the West European network operators about cooperation in the context of SWAPs, such as prioritisation and communication. A distinction is made between three categories of swaps, in which the degree of willingness to cooperate with a SWAP request is agreed:

1. Disasters: a network operator experiences a sudden problem as a result of which it is (possibly) not in a position to meet its transport obligations.
   • Utmost effort is made to provide mutual support to each other
   • These SWAPs hardly ever occur
2. Technical problems and maintenance/work: a network operator is planning to carry out work which may cause it to encounter problems in meeting its transport obligations.
   • Effort according to ability;
   • These SWAPs occur occasionally and are always coordinated well in advance
3. Transport optimisation: a network operator can optimise its transport (e.g. less need for compression or conversion) if the delivery or intake of gas is redirected to another network point.
   • Cooperation only required if it results in no or marginal additional effort and/or costs
   • These SWAPs happen frequently (daily)

Almost all network points at the borders with other network operators are regularly involved in SWAPs. Some of the most common are: