Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the release of the "Regulations on the Planning, Construction, and Operation Management of Oil and Gas Infrastructure," which aims to promote high-quality development of oil and gas infrastructure in China, aligning with the Energy Law and market-oriented reforms [3]. Group 1: Scope Definition - The new regulations clarify the scope of oil and gas infrastructure, specifying the criteria for main pipelines and excluding certain short-distance pipelines from the main network, thus providing a clear operational framework for resource allocation and infrastructure coordination [4]. Group 2: Responsibilities and Obligations - The updated regulations redefine the gas storage responsibility system, splitting the storage obligation between gas supply companies and the national pipeline group, and extending local government emergency storage days to five, creating a collaborative mechanism between market operations and government support [5]. Group 3: Market Participation - The regulations enhance market participation by promoting the separation of pipeline operations from competitive businesses, encouraging private and social capital to invest in oil and gas infrastructure projects, thereby increasing the involvement of private enterprises in the sector [6]. Group 4: Planning Coordination - The regulations expand the planning framework from natural gas to include oil, requiring provincial planning to align with national energy and land use plans, and prohibiting local authorities from approving cross-border or cross-province pipeline projects independently [7]. Group 5: Regulatory Mechanism - The regulations introduce a detailed regulatory mechanism for overseeing the construction and operation of oil and gas infrastructure, ensuring compliance with the Energy Law and establishing a legal framework for fair access to pipeline facilities [9]. Group 6: Innovation Orientation - The regulations emphasize technological innovation and the establishment of industry standards, supporting the development of new technologies and digital applications in the oil and gas sector, which aligns with the goal of enhancing production efficiency and transitioning to a low-carbon economy [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the release of the "Regulations on the Planning, Construction, and Operation Management of Oil and Gas Infrastructure," which aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of oil and gas infrastructure in China, ensuring energy security and promoting high-quality development in the sector [3][9]. Group 1: Background and Importance - The 20th National Congress emphasized optimizing energy infrastructure and highlighted the critical role of oil and gas infrastructure in ensuring energy security, reducing economic costs, and improving living standards [3]. - The new regulations mark a significant step towards the standardized development of oil and gas infrastructure in China, addressing the growing demand for natural gas and the need for improved infrastructure [4]. Group 2: Management System and Planning - The regulations aim to establish a comprehensive management system to address the imbalances in oil and gas infrastructure development, such as insufficient storage and transportation facilities [4]. - A structured planning approach is introduced, with clear responsibilities assigned to national and provincial energy authorities to ensure alignment with national plans [5]. Group 3: Investment and Construction - The regulations encourage diverse investment in oil and gas infrastructure, allowing social capital to participate in pipeline projects and other facilities [5]. - A focus on creating a modern oil and gas infrastructure system is emphasized, with mechanisms to support investment from various stakeholders [5]. Group 4: Service Quality and Operations - The regulations aim to enhance service quality across all operational levels, promoting a unified national network for oil and gas services [6]. - Specific guidelines are provided for public service facilities to ensure fair access and transparency in operations [6]. Group 5: Storage and Emergency Services - The regulations set forth requirements for gas storage and peak-shaving facilities, emphasizing the importance of these services for industry stability and emergency preparedness [7]. - A dual operational model is proposed, balancing market-driven operations with government oversight during emergencies [7]. Group 6: Supervision and Regulation - Enhanced supervision and management are mandated, with clear delineation of responsibilities between national and provincial authorities to prevent fragmented oversight [8]. - The regulations aim to create a legal and standardized market environment for the oil and gas sector [8]. Group 7: Sustainability and Innovation - The regulations prioritize green and low-carbon development, mandating ecological measures throughout project lifecycles [8]. - The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI, is encouraged to facilitate the digital transformation of infrastructure [8]. Group 8: Long-term Impact - The implementation of these regulations is expected to improve the overall efficiency of oil and gas infrastructure, attract social capital, and foster a competitive market environment [9]. - The regulations are seen as a foundation for ensuring energy security and supporting high-quality economic development in the long run [9].

Core Points - The National Development and Reform Commission has revised and issued the "Regulations on the Planning, Construction, and Operation Management of Oil and Gas Infrastructure," effective from January 1, 2026, focusing on green and low-carbon development in the oil and gas industry [1][29] - The regulations emphasize the need for technological innovation and digital transformation in infrastructure construction and operation, promoting the development of new technologies, industries, and business models [1][32] Summary by Sections General Principles - The regulations aim to standardize the planning, construction, and operation management of oil and gas infrastructure, ensuring service quality and efficiency while safeguarding public interests and energy security [3] - The regulations apply to all oil and gas infrastructure activities within the jurisdiction of the People's Republic of China, excluding certain facilities like military and gas facilities [3] Planning of Oil and Gas Infrastructure - The State Council's energy department will coordinate the planning and construction of major oil and gas infrastructure, ensuring alignment with national and regional energy plans [5][6] - Local governments are prohibited from independently segmenting and approving cross-border or cross-province oil and gas pipeline projects [6][7] Construction of Oil and Gas Infrastructure - The National Pipeline Group is responsible for the construction of main oil and gas pipelines, with encouragement for social capital participation in various projects [7][8] - Projects must comply with investment management regulations and undergo necessary approvals, with a focus on environmental protection during construction [8][9] Operation of Oil and Gas Infrastructure - Operators of oil and gas pipelines must ensure fair access and usage of facilities, with strict regulations against engaging in competitive businesses [11][12] - The regulations require operators to maintain safety standards and provide transparent information regarding service capabilities and operational status [14][15] Natural Gas Storage and Regulation - The regulations establish a framework for natural gas storage facilities, mandating a minimum storage capacity for gas supply companies [17][18] - A market mechanism for gas storage services will be developed to ensure effective supply during peak demand and emergencies [17][18] Supervision and Management - The energy departments at various levels are tasked with supervising the planning and construction of oil and gas infrastructure, ensuring compliance with regulations [28][29] - The regulations outline the responsibilities of the State Council's energy department in overseeing fair access to oil and gas pipeline facilities [19][20] Legal Responsibilities - Clear legal responsibilities are defined for violations of the regulations, including penalties for non-compliance in project approvals and operational standards [21][22] - The regulations emphasize the importance of maintaining safety and environmental standards in the operation of oil and gas infrastructure [23][24] Implementation and Future Considerations - The regulations will be implemented starting January 1, 2026, with a focus on aligning with national energy strategies and improving the overall management of oil and gas infrastructure [28][29] - The government will continue to refine and develop supporting guidelines to enhance the effectiveness of the regulations [38][39]