A Washington Natural Gas Storage Lease refers to an agreement between a natural gas company and the State of Washington, allowing the company to store natural gas in underground facilities located within the state's borders. This lease provides the company with exclusive rights to use and manage these storage facilities for a specified period, ensuring a steady supply and convenient access to natural gas. Washington offers various types of Natural Gas Storage Leases, each catering to different needs and requirements of the companies. These leases are categorized based on factors such as storage capacity, duration, and terms of operation. Here are some of the different types of Washington Natural Gas Storage Leases: 1. Base Gas Lease: A base gas lease allows a company to store a specific quantity of natural gas in underground facilities on a long-term basis. This type of lease ensures a constant supply of gas, serving as a foundation for seasonal storage and market fluctuations. 2. Peak Shaving Lease: A peak shaving lease allows companies to store natural gas for use during periods of high demand or supply disruptions. The stored gas can be utilized to "shave" peak demands by releasing the stored gas into the system, ensuring uninterrupted natural gas supply during critical moments. 3. Balancing Lease: A balancing lease provides companies with the flexibility to manage imbalances between the supply and demand of natural gas. It enables them to store excess gas during periods of low demand and withdraw it during times of high demand, helping maintain a balanced and stable supply grid. 4. Strategic Reserve Lease: A strategic reserve lease allows companies to store a reserve supply of natural gas that can be utilized during emergencies, severe weather events, or unforeseen disruptions in the gas supply chain. This lease ensures preparedness for unexpected circumstances and helps maintain reliable energy access during critical times. Washington Natural Gas Storage Leases are vital for ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of natural gas to meet the state's energy needs. Companies engaging in these leases benefit from the state's geologically suitable sites, regional natural gas markets, and well-established regulatory frameworks. These leases contribute to the overall energy security, stability, and resilience of Washington's natural gas supply infrastructure.