Install energy storage tanks in pipelines

What is an underground storage tank (UST) system?

An underground storage tank (UST) system is a tank (or a combination of tanks) and connected underground piping having at least 10 percent of their combined volume underground. The tank system includes the tank, underground connected piping, underground ancillary equipment, and any containment system.

Are underground storage tanks covered by UST regulations?

Only those tanks that meet the definition of an underground storage tank (UST) system are covered by the UST regulations. Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are subject to other federal, state, or local regulations. Most ASTs need to meet U.S. EPA's Spill, Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) requirements (40 CFR, Part 112).

How does natural gas storage work?

Natural gas storage during periods of low demand helps to ensure that enough natural gas is available during periods of high demand. Natural gas is stored in large volumes in underground facilities and in smaller volumes in tanks above or below ground. The United States uses three main types of underground natural gas storage facilities:

How does a natural gas pipeline work?

Interstate natural gas pipelines operate and transport natural gas across state borders. Intrastate natural gas pipelines operate and transport natural gas within a state border. Hinshaw natural gas pipelines receive natural gas from interstate pipelines and deliver it to consumers for consumption within a state border.

Where is natural gas stored?

Natural gas is stored in large volumes in underground facilities and in smaller volumes in tanks above or below ground. The United States uses three main types of underground natural gas storage facilities: Depleted natural gas or oil fields —Most natural gas storage is in depleted natural gas or oil fields that are close to consuming areas.

When did EPA start regulating underground storage tanks?

In 1984, Congress directed the U.S. EPA to develop regulations for underground storage tank systems. EPA issued federal regulations, effective December 1988, that delegate UST regulatory authority to approved state programs. States are the primary implementers of the UST program and may have requirements more stringent than the federal regulations.