Workshop on Deep-Dive into Gas Storage Solutions

The German-Israeli Energy Partnership promotes exchange and tangible cooperation in the field of energy. In both countries, natural gas plays an important role as an energy source and raw material. As such, natural gas storage is a cornerstone of energy security, serving as a critical buffer against supply disruptions and seasonal demand fluctuations. By maintaining substantial storage capacity, countries can ensure a reliable energy supply during periods of geopolitical instability, extreme weather events, or unexpected surges in consumption. Furthermore, gas storage plays a pivotal role in the transition to renewable energy, providing a flexible and reliable backup source to complement intermittent renewables like wind and solar.

Consequently, in the framework of the German-Israeli Energy Partnership, a two-day expert workshop on "Strategic, Regulatory, and Techno-Economic Aspects of Gas Storage" took place on 25 - 26 September 2024. Representatives from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), the Israeli Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Technical University of Berlin, RWE Gas Storage West, DBI Gas- und Umwelttechnik, Storengy – ENGIE, the German Energy Agency (dena), Kiel University, Uniper Energy Storage, the German Federal Network Agency (BNetzA), SEFE Securing Energy for Europe, Podzemno skladiste plina (PSP), and other experts from ministries, agencies, and infrastructure operators from both countries convened to discuss strategic, regulatory, and techno-economic aspects of gas storage.

On the first day, participants discussed demand and potential assessments for gas and hydrogen storage, as well as perspectives on CCS. Experts presented models for gas network and storage modeling, as well as challenges in converting depleted gas fields into underground storage facilities. Possibilities for CO₂ storage in the German North Sea area were also explored.

The second day focused on regulatory and market aspects of gas storage. Presentations on European storage markets and the German gas market system provided insights into current developments. Technical and economic considerations were illustrated through case studies of gas storage projects, facilitating the exchange of practical experience.