Underground natural gas storage is playing an increasingly important role, with nearly 700 facilities worldwide developed over a century. It is now, in many cases,  recognized as a distinct discipline with unique specifications and criticalities. In fact, SPE and other technical groups have derived a set of reservoir management rules which are memorialized in the Storage Reserves Management System (SRMS), which is unique but used in parallel with the Petroleum Reserves Management System (PMRS).  Currently, underground natural gas storage contributes to meeting European natural gas demand by as much as 20% and has become even more strategic than in the past, which is why European directives were introduced in 2022 with the target of ensuring a high level of filling. The conversion of underground storage facilities to host green gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen, is also key in the perspective of the energy transition undertaken by Europe. New developments and improvements in storage efficiency would be highly beneficial both as an essential component of the new energy value chain and to balance energy demand and production from renewables.

Join this strategic session where experts will discuss the technical, regulatory, management and economic challenges and opportunities of underground gas storage to achieve enhanced energy security.