The Single Authorisation is a key permit that allows TAP to move ahead with the start of pipeline construction in 2016.

"TAP would like to thank the Italian government and all those involved in the process for granting the Single Authorisation permit," TAP said. "This allows TAP to now

move ahead with the start of pipeline construction in 2016.  TAP will also continue to respect local needs and work closely with local communities to ensure they remain fully informed of the process as the project moves forward."

TAP will be ready to transport gas from Shah Deniz II to Europe in early 2020, it said.

Connecting with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Greek-Turkish border, TAP will cross Northern Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea before coming ashore in Southern Italy to connect to the Italian natural gas network.

TAP's shareholders include SOCAR, Statoil, BP, Fluxys, Enagás and Axpo.