National Energy Administration Issues Plan for Coalbed Methane Expansion in Eastern Ordos Basin

The National Energy Administration has issued the Action Plan for Increasing Coalbed Methane Reserves and Production in the Eastern Region of the Ordos Basin (2026-2030). The plan proposes to advance the construction of coalbed methane pipeline networks in the eastern Ordos region in accordance with the national natural gas 'one network' plan and implementation scheme. In blocks such as Daning-Jixian, Mizhi North, Shenfu, and Daniudi, the plan leverages existing oil and gas field infrastructure to strengthen the interconnection of gathering and transportation networks, supporting nearby access to national trunk pipelines including the Shaanxi-Beijing, West-East Gas Pipeline, and Yulin-Jinan lines. The plan also proposes to promote the construction of digital and intelligent stations to improve operational efficiency and refined management. It encourages the planning and construction of underground gas storage facilities and other gas storage infrastructure to serve stable production in the blocks and enhance peak-shaving and supply security capabilities.