Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the newly approved "Regulations on the Planning, Construction, and Operation Management of Oil and Gas Infrastructure," which will take effect on January 1, 2026, aiming to enhance the planning, construction, and management of oil and gas infrastructure in China [1][2]. Group 1: Planning and Management - Provincial energy authorities are responsible for managing oil and gas infrastructure planning and construction within their jurisdictions [3]. - The regulations encourage the research and development of key technologies and materials for oil and gas infrastructure, promoting digital and intelligent development through advanced technologies like artificial intelligence [3]. - A comprehensive standard system for oil and gas infrastructure will be established to ensure supply safety and support green and low-carbon transitions [3]. Group 2: Infrastructure Planning - The State Council's energy department will organize the national oil and gas infrastructure development plan, considering economic and social development, resource endowments, and environmental protection [4]. - Local energy authorities must align their regional plans with national guidelines and ensure that oil and gas infrastructure development is integrated with land use planning [5]. Group 3: Infrastructure Construction - Enterprises responsible for constructing national oil and gas pipelines must adhere to national energy planning and expedite investment and construction processes [7]. - Social capital, especially private investment, is encouraged to participate in oil and gas infrastructure projects, including storage and LNG receiving stations [7]. Group 4: Infrastructure Operation - Companies operating oil and gas pipelines must not engage in competitive businesses such as exploration and production to ensure fair access to infrastructure [13]. - Provincial governments are tasked with separating pipeline transportation and sales, ensuring financial independence and facilitating direct transactions between upstream and downstream users [16]. Group 5: Natural Gas Storage and Regulation - The regulations emphasize the establishment of a natural gas storage system, requiring gas supply companies to maintain a storage capacity of no less than 5% of their annual supply [22]. - A market mechanism for gas storage and peak regulation will be developed to manage seasonal and emergency supply needs effectively [27]. Group 6: Supervision and Legal Responsibility - Provincial energy authorities will oversee the planning and construction of oil and gas infrastructure, ensuring compliance with regulations [27]. - Violations of the regulations can lead to corrective actions, administrative penalties, and potential legal consequences for responsible parties [30][31].