The UK's gas is transported around the country through a network of underground pipes, called the National Transmission System (NTS). It is used in our power stations to generate electricity and is sent to distribution networks to supply homes and businesses.

There are a number of methods for storing gas:

Distribution System - The amount of gas in the network of distribution pipelines (called “line-pack”) can be varied slightly to help meet day-to-day changes in demand by adjusting the pressure in the pipes. Large above ground storage tanks – “Gasometers” – also store gas at low pressure to help meet variations in demand.

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) – At certain points around the NTS, natural gas is cooled and compressed to turn it into a liquid which is stored in large above ground tanks. These tanks must be kept cool all the time. The LNG can be turned back into gas by warming it up and is used to help meet the peak demands in winter. Liquefying natural gas is a very slow process so these facilities only supply gas on a few peak demand days each year. LNG can also be imported by ship and stored briefly at the port while it is re-gasified and put in the NTS.

Depleted Fields   - When old gas and oil fields reach the end of their lives, some are suitable for use as gas storage to help fulfill changes in demand. The rates of input and extraction of gas are generally quite low making this type of storage   best suited   for managing seasonal changes in demand.

Salt caverns - Purpose built underground salt caverns allow large quantities of gas to be stored.   These facilities are very flexible   as gas can be quickly and easily   injected and removed from the caverns.