Potential Underground Gas Storage Reservoirs in Latvia

Author

Santis Limez, Western Michigan University

Date of Award

4-1997

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Geological and Environmental Sciences

Department

Geosciences

First Advisor

Dr. William B. Harrison III

Second Advisor

Dr. David Barnes

Third Advisor

Paul Daniels

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

The Baltic state of Latvia, produces no natural gas; all natural gas consumed is imported. In order to address future gas needs in Latvia, this study was undertaken to provide geological background and select sites with the best gas storage potential and reduce costs of more detailed field analyses in the next phase of gas storage development. Russia is the sole natural gas supplier and delivers the gas to Latvia via transmission pipelines. The Inchukalns underground gas storage field is the only underground gas storage field in the Baltic states. Although this structure accommodates current needs, projections show additional storage will be required within ten years. The Geological Survey of Latvia has identified more than ten additional geologic structures similar to Inchukalns. This study has analyzed geological characteristics, including reservoir structure, thickness and reservoir property data in five of these structures--Dobele, North Blidene, Amata, Ligatne and North Ligatne. The study proves the suitable geological conditions in all of the studied structures. Economic considerations favor development of the Ligatne structure, but availability of geologic data and large volume potential suggests better utilization of the Dobele structure.

Recommended Citation

Limez, Santis, "Potential Underground Gas Storage Reservoirs in Latvia" (1997). Masters Theses. 4868.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4868