China Leads World’s Underground Gas Storage Buildup

Core Insights - China has significantly increased its underground gas storage capacity, ranking 6th globally as of 2025, with an addition of 6 billion cubic meters (bcm) since 2022 [1][2][3] Group 1: Global Gas Storage Capacity - As of 2025, there are 699 underground natural gas storage facilities worldwide, with a total working gas volume of 424 bcm, reflecting an increase of 10 bcm since 2022 [1] - The top five countries with the largest gas storage capacity are the United States, Russia, Ukraine, Canada, and Germany, while China has moved up to 6th place [2] Group 2: China's Gas Storage Expansion - China's expansion of underground gas storage is aimed at reducing exposure to the volatile spot LNG market, potentially decreasing the need for LNG cargo imports [3] - PetroChina has acquired three natural gas storage facilities from its parent company CNPC, enhancing its capacity and control over the gas supply chain [4] Group 3: Energy Security and Demand Management - The operationalization of China's first underground salt cavern gas storage facility marks a significant boost in managing peak demand and ensuring energy security [5] - CNPC anticipates that natural gas demand will accelerate through the second half of the decade, despite competition from electric vehicles [4]