Underground gas storage reached a historic milestone as China marked 50 years of continuous operations at a key facility. Consequently, the achievement highlights long-term energy reliability and infrastructure resilience. Moreover, officials described the record as nationally significant.
The facility operates at the Lamadian site within Daqing Oilfield. Specifically, it is located in Heilongjiang Province in northeastern China. As a result, the region benefits from a reliable energy supply during some of the country’s coldest winters.
Since operations began in 1975, the site has supported gas injection and extraction without interruption. Over time, the facility handled more than five billion cubic meters of natural gas. Therefore, engineers confirmed stable performance across decades.
Notably, the site has operated for more than 18,000 consecutive days. This period exceeds the standard lifespan for similar facilities. In fact, industry benchmarks often range between 30 and 50 years.
Equally important, the facility has maintained a perfect safety record. Furthermore, managers reported zero safety incidents since launch. In addition, environmental monitoring recorded no hazardous events.
Recently, the facility began a new extraction cycle. Operators plan to withdraw 84 million cubic meters of gas. Consequently, the supply will support winter heating demand across Heilongjiang.
As temperatures drop sharply, energy reliability becomes critical. Therefore, local authorities rely on underground gas storage to balance seasonal demand. In turn, the system helps prevent shortages during peak winter periods.
Originally, Daqing Oilfield faced challenges managing large volumes of gas byproducts. Therefore, engineers explored underground storage solutions. As a result, this effort led to China’s first such facility.
At the time, underground gas storage represented a technical breakthrough. Engineers adapted depleted reservoirs for safe gas containment. Consequently, the solution reduced waste and improved energy efficiency.
Over the decades, the facility adopted continuous upgrades. Specifically, operators improved monitoring systems and pressure controls. As a result, these improvements extended operational life.
Energy experts praised the site’s durability. In particular, they noted consistent performance under extreme climate conditions. Therefore, the record strengthened confidence in similar projects nationwide.
Underground gas storage now plays a growing role in China’s energy strategy. Moreover, it supports supply flexibility amid fluctuating demand. Accordingly, policymakers view storage as essential for energy security.
Furthermore, the facility supports broader energy transition goals. Stable gas supplies complement renewable power integration. In addition, gas helps balance intermittent wind and solar output.
Industry analysts highlighted cost savings achieved through long-term operations. Indeed, extended lifespan reduces capital replacement needs. Consequently, this efficiency benefits state-owned energy operators.
The Lamadian facility also serves as a technical reference. As such, engineers apply its experience to newer storage projects. In turn, lessons improve safety and performance standards.
Looking ahead, operators plan continued maintenance and modernization. They aim to preserve operational stability for years ahead. Moreover, authorities support extending service life further.
Meanwhile, Heilongjiang officials continue preparing for winter demand. Accordingly, gas withdrawals will increase during peak cold periods. Thus, the facility remains central to regional planning.
Underground gas storage also supports national emergency preparedness. Specifically, stored reserves provide a buffer against supply disruptions. Therefore, this capacity enhances resilience.
As China expands energy infrastructure, experience from Daqing remains valuable. Indeed, long-term performance builds trust in underground storage solutions. Consequently, policymakers encourage replication where geology permits.
Ultimately, underground gas storage at Lamadian reflects strategic foresight. In particular, the project balanced innovation, safety, and endurance. As a result, it now stands as a cornerstone of China’s energy system.
