Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), Location, Commission

Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) operates a major oil pipeline transporting crude from Kazakhstan to Russia’s Black Sea coast. Learn about its infrastructure, economic significance, and impact on global energy markets.

Context: According to Russia, oil flows through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium were reduced by 30-40% recently after a Ukrainian drone attack on a pumping station.

About Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC)

CPC was established in 1992 to transport crude oil from the Caspian Sea region to global markets.
Pipeline Route:
- It starts from the Tengiz oil field, Kazakhstan & Ends at Novorossiysk, Russia (Black Sea port)
- Length: 1,500 km. & Capacity: Over 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd)

Key Features of CPC Pipeline

It is one of the largest international oil transport projects involving both public and private sector entities.
Main source of crude oil: Kazakhstan (Tengiz, Karachaganak, and Kashagan fields).
Major Export Destination: Europe and other global markets.

Key Facts about CPC

Length: Approximately 1,511 km (939 miles)
Capacity: Over 1.4 million barrels per day after expansions
Route: Starts in western Kazakhstan and runs through southern Russia to the Black Sea
Ownership: A mix of public and private shareholders, including Kazakhstan, Russia, and major energy companies like Chevron and Lukoil

Significance

Bypasses the Persian Gulf and Suez Canal, providing a strategic alternative for oil exports.
Crucial for Kazakhstan’s economy, as over 80% of its oil exports flow through this pipeline.