InSAR Analysis of Underground Gas Storage

Natural gas is an important source of energy used for domestic, industrial and transport purposes. Its presence is unevenly distributed in the world, and its consumption is subject to large seasonal fluctuations. In addressing this challenge, Underground Gas Storage (UGS) represents an important option to create national strategic reserves and helps ensure a steady and reliable supply of natural gas. However, gas storage activities, inducing continuous stress changes, can threaten caprock integrity, possibly resulting in gas leakages. The inherent risks necessitate the development of operational protocols for effectively characterizing and monitoring UGS activities. Interferometric Satellite Aperture Radar (InSAR) data offers a comprehensive site-specific perspective, which proves valuable for enhancing the management of withdrawal and injection rates, as well as assessing environmental impacts near UGS facilities. Its utilization contributes to higher levels of operational reliability and safety.