Investing 28 million euros, the gas collection point at the Inčukalns UGS has been modernized

Within the framework of the Inčukalns Underground Gas Storage (UGS) modernisation project, Gas Collection Point No. 3 (GCP‑3) has undergone technical reconstruction and upgrading, increasing its operational capacity, the unified gas transmission and storage system operator JSC Conexus Baltic Grid (“Conexus”) reports. A total of 28 million euros has been invested in the modernisation of GCP‑3.

The modernisation of GCP‑3 began in 2019 as part of the overall Inčukalns UGS modernisation programme, with construction carried out in two stages. During the project, 30 technological lines as well as the previous equipment, machinery, and buildings of the gas collection point were dismantled. In their place, an entirely new gas collection point has been built, equipped with modern technologies, technical systems, and engineering solutions.

“The modernisation of GCP‑3 is a significant step in strengthening the technical capacity of the Inčukalns UGS, contributing to the secure and reliable supply of natural gas in Latvia and the Baltic region, and ensuring the sustainable development of the storage facility and its readiness for future energy challenges,” emphasises Uldis Bariss, Chairman of the Management Board of Conexus Baltic Grid.

In total, the new gas collection point is equipped with 34 first‑stage gas purification separators with technological lines, four new pipeline connections between wells and the gas collection point, and four second‑stage gas purification separators. A new production building and other necessary auxiliary infrastructure have also been constructed. Thanks to the expanded pressure regulation range at the facility, the gas collection point can operate flexibly and safely in different operating modes. Construction works were carried out in a way that ensured the continuous operation of the gas collection point throughout the entire project.

A total of 28 million euros has been invested in the GCP‑3 modernisation project, including 14 million euros in co‑financing from the European Union.

Overall, the Inčukalns UGS modernisation investment volume amounts to 99.5 million euros, of which 44 million euros are covered by funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). The project includes improvements to surface infrastructure — including the reconstruction of GCP‑3 — well restoration, as well as the modernisation of five existing gas compressor units and the installation of a new compressor unit, thereby enhancing natural gas supply security, increasing the storage facility’s operational capacity, and supporting integration into the international energy market.