Gaslagret

Gaslagret refers to facilities and systems used to store natural gas for future use. The primary purpose is to secure a reliable gas supply, smooth seasonal and daily demand, and stabilize prices. Storage enables injections when demand is low and withdrawals when demand or supply is high, or during interruptions in transit.

Common storage forms include subterranean facilities in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, aquifers, and salt caverns. These underground stores offer large capacities and rapid response. In some regions, above-ground LNG storage terminals and other tank-based facilities complement gas storage by handling liquefied gas for import and distribution. Typical capacities range from hundreds of millions to several billions of cubic meters, depending on geology and infrastructure.

Operations involve maintaining appropriate pressure and controlling gas flow through compressors and pipelines. Injections and withdrawals are coordinated with market needs, contract obligations, and system balancing requirements. Gas quality, dehydration, and impurity control are managed to ensure that the gas meets pipeline specifications before it is pushed into or taken from the network.

Safety and regulation are central to gaslagret. Operators follow national and international standards for safety, environmental protection, and energy security. Monitoring includes leak detection, corrosion control, pressure management, and emergency response planning.

Gaslagret plays a key role in energy security and market stability, particularly when renewable generation is variable or external gas deliveries are constrained. By providing buffering capacity, they support reliable supply, price stability, and cross-border energy trade.