Gas storage bank

Gas Storage Bank is a facility used for storing natural gas and other hydrocarbon gases. These facilities are crucial in managing the supply and demand of natural gas, ensuring a steady supply during periods of high demand.

Overview

A gas storage bank, also known as a gas storage reservoir, is a large-scale storage facility for natural gas. These facilities are typically located underground, often in depleted oil and gas fields, aquifers, or salt caverns. The choice of location depends on various factors, including the geological and physical characteristics of the site, proximity to natural gas markets, and existing infrastructure.

Types of Gas Storage Banks

There are three main types of gas storage banks: depleted gas reservoirs, aquifer reservoirs, and salt cavern reservoirs.

Depleted Gas Reservoirs

Depleted gas reservoirs are the most common type of gas storage bank. These are natural reservoirs that have been depleted of their original gas or oil. The advantage of using depleted gas reservoirs is that they have a proven ability to hold hydrocarbons.

Aquifer Reservoirs

Aquifer reservoirs are water-bearing sedimentary rocks that can be converted into gas storage banks. Before they can be used for gas storage, the water in the aquifer must be displaced by gas.

Salt Cavern Reservoirs

Salt cavern reservoirs are man-made caverns in salt formations. They are created by injecting water into the salt formation and dissolving the salt.

Operation

The operation of a gas storage bank involves injecting gas into the storage facility during periods of low demand and withdrawing it during periods of high demand. The injection and withdrawal of gas are controlled by compressor stations, which increase the pressure of the gas to push it into the storage facility and decrease the pressure to allow it to flow out.

Importance

Gas storage banks play a crucial role in ensuring the stability of the natural gas supply. They allow for the storage of surplus gas during periods of low demand, which can then be used during periods of high demand. This helps to prevent shortages and maintain stable prices.