Italy to lead underground gas storage project starts in Europe by 2030

Core Insights - Italy, the UK, and Romania are set to lead underground gas storage (UGS) project starts in Europe through 2030, driven by strong infrastructure, suitable geology, and efforts to reduce reliance on imports, particularly from Russia [1] Group 1: Italy's UGS Projects - Italy is expected to lead Europe with 13 UGS projects coming online between 2026 and 2030, aiming to become a regional gas hub by decreasing dependence on Russian gas and increasing imports from the Mediterranean and Africa [2] - All upcoming UGS projects in Italy are based on depleted oil and gas fields, with eight projects in early development stages and the rest under construction [2] Group 2: UK’s UGS Projects - The UK ranks second with six UGS projects planned for the outlook period, utilizing depleted oil and gas fields and salt caverns, with all projects currently in pre-construction stages [3] Group 3: Romania’s UGS Projects - Romania is projected to have five new UGS projects by 2030, all based on depleted oil and gas fields, with four projects under construction and one having received development approval [4] - The strategic importance of UGS in Romania is underscored by significant gas production and its location in southeast Europe, which is crucial for supply security and balanced flows [4]