History
From exploration
to development.
Decades of geological work underpin today’s focus on domestic natural gas production at Veľké Kostoľany.
- 1970s
Exploration of the field
Eight wells opened the geological structure. Gas-bearing and water-bearing layers were identified, establishing the basis for subsequent field studies.
- 2006
Seismic investigation
Seismic measurements added to the historical drilling data and provided a basis for later geological reinterpretation.
- 2018
A new development concept
The concept set out a gas production phase followed by a storage perspective. New 3D seismic work supported a reassessment of the field.
- 2019–2020
Infrastructure and site planning
Technical planning covered the storage site and pipeline connections toward Špačince and Malženice. The zoning permit process began in early 2020.
- 2023–2024
Updated reserve calculation
Work refocused on gas field development in 2023. The updated geological reserve calculation was approved on 6 February 2024. Pipeline environmental assessment documentation was also updated in 2024.
- 2025
Separate permitting pathways
The original underground gas storage EIA was rejected in August. The pipeline assessment continued, with a public hearing on 30 September. Preparation shifted toward gas production and its own permitting requirements.
- 2026
Preparation for gas production
The protected deposit area enlargement was approved on 4 September, followed by an application for the extraction area. The development plan sets out phased well work, gas treatment and a local grid connection.