China Plans World's Largest Onshore LNG Storage Tanks with GTT Membrane Technology

Three new onshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tanks, each with a capacity of 240,000 cubic meters, are planned for the Yuedong LNG Terminal in Guangdong province, China. This development could establish a new world record for large-scale LNG storage infrastructure.

French specialist GTT, known for LNG containment technology, has secured a contract from China Chengda Engineering Co., Ltd. to design these very large LNG tanks. The tanks will be constructed for PipeChina Group Co., Ltd. as part of the Yuedong LNG Terminal project located in Jieyang City, a key natural gas hub in southern China.

Upon completion, the three tanks will represent the largest onshore LNG storage tanks worldwide to employ GTT’s GST membrane full-containment technology. The delivery of these tanks is planned for the fourth quarter of 2028.

Record-Setting LNG Storage Capacity

Each tank's 240,000-cubic-meter capacity will significantly enhance the terminal's storage capabilities amid China's expansion of its natural gas import and distribution network. Guangdong province, where the terminal is situated, is a vital industrial and energy-demanding region in China.

The project aims to bolster LNG storage capacity, advance energy security, and develop more adaptable gas infrastructure throughout southern China. Central to this effort is the application of GTT’s GST membrane full-containment technology.

GTT highlights that this technology offers multiple benefits compared to conventional land-based LNG storage tank designs, including improvements in material efficiency, insulation quality, and storage density.

Efficiency Gains with Advanced Technology

The GST membrane design reduces steel usage by approximately 40% relative to traditional LNG tank technologies, which is expected to lower emissions throughout the supply chain. The tanks will also incorporate optimized insulation to maintain consistent and high energy performance.

Additionally, the compact design of the GST system allows for up to 10% more LNG storage capacity within the same physical footprint. While primarily intended for LNG, the tanks will also be capable of storing other liquefied gases such as ethane, propane, ethylene, and ammonia, offering flexibility for evolving energy and industrial needs.

Strategic Importance of the LNG Terminal

François Michel, CEO of GTT, emphasized the increasing significance of membrane containment technology in large-scale energy projects. Xu Gang, President of China Chengda Engineering Co., Ltd., expressed satisfaction with the renewed collaboration on constructing the world’s largest membrane full-containment tanks utilizing the latest GST technology.

Xu Gang stated, “This project reflects our shared commitment to delivering advanced, safe and efficient LNG infrastructure solutions.” The initiative contributes to China’s ongoing development of LNG import and storage facilities as the country strengthens its natural gas network to satisfy growing demand in crucial economic areas.