Gasreserven

Gasreserven (natural gas reserves) are the quantities of natural gas that are known to be recoverable under current geological knowledge, technology, and economic conditions. They are distinguished from resources by their recoverability and economic viability. In widely used classifications, proved reserves (1P) have a high probability of being recovered (often described as at least 90%), while probable (2P) and possible (3P) reserves include progressively larger estimates with lower confidence. The sum of proved and probable reserves is commonly reported as 2P, while 3P adds possible reserves. International guidelines such as PRMS define these categories to emphasize economic and technical viability rather than mere geological presence.

Estimations rely on geology, geophysics, well data, and economic modeling. Reserves are reported in energy units such as billion cubic meters (bcm), trillion cubic meters (tcm), or trillion cubic feet (tcf). A reserve life index (RLI) and a reserves replacement ratio (RRR) are used to assess sustainability. RLI equals reserves divided by annual production. RRR equals new reserves added divided by annual production.

Most gas reserves are concentrated in a few regions, notably in Russia, Iran, and Qatar, with significant holdings in the United States and Turkiye, among others. Regional shares change with new discoveries, price signals, and developments in technologies such as unconventional gas and LNG. Prices, subsidy policies, and regulatory frameworks also influence economic recoverability.

Gasreserven underpin energy security planning, long-term investment, and infrastructure development such as pipelines and LNG terminals. They are continually revised as new data become available and as technology and market conditions evolve.