Underground gas storage facilities - an element of Polish energy security

The article presents characteristic qualities of Polish underground gas storage (USG) and their expansion as compared to USG in EU member states, taking into account the period from Poland's accession to the European Union to 2015. The possibility of obtaining funds from the Operational Programme for Infrastructure and Environment 2007-2013 (Activity 10.1) was fully used by Poland, and as a result, the storage capacity of USG increased from 1.4 bn m(3) in 2005 to approximately 2.9 bn m(3) in 2015. Four projects were completed, in connection with the construction/expansion of underground gas storage in: Wierzchowice, Strachocina, Kosakowo, Husow, at a total cost of about PLN 2.745 bn, with EU subsidies of PLN 0.704 bn. Currently, another possibility has arisen for obtaining subsidies for the expansion of UGS, as part of the new prospect (2014-2020). This issue must be examined comprehensively, taking into consideration the entire gas transmission system, in the aspect of ensuring Poland's energy security. USG are a vital component of this system.