Hydrocarbon storage in unlined rock caverns in Greek limestone

The existence of tank farms in the vicinity of cities is a principal component of the urban vulnerability and risk conditions. Even if such environments have been accepted in the past, the enforcement of stricter environmental legislations and the emerging of a strong public opposition towards this co-existence, usually result in the relocation of the facilities. Nevertheless, the relocation process has to overcome a great deal of issues, such as high land cost and strong opposition from neighbouring communities, that often hinder or might even postpone the whole project. Answer to such standstill cases can be given by the development of underground complexes that can facilitate the storage requirements, efficiently and with enhanced environmental protection. Hence, the first area that should be considered for the tank farm relocation is found right beneath the existing facilities. This paper presents the Greek experience, paying special attention to the storage facilities found in the Perama area. The development of an underground storage complex is proposed in that particular area, which could finally offer a viable solution, satisfying the interests of all involved parties. The unlined caverns are to be excavated in limestone bedrock and the characteristics of this alternative are illustrated in detail, followed by the comparative cost analysis between the underground scheme and the surface relocation of the tank farm to another area in Attica.