Rational development and reconstruction of the gas supply system are the key problems of the gas industry. These problems are addressed within the mid-term planning of the Unified Gas Supply System of Russia and its large-scale fragments – territorial gas supply systems. Various factors should be considered in decision-making: the forecast gas demand dynamics for existing and potential consumers; the technical condition of the system facilities; the current modes of gas transportation, storage, and distribution; the forecast transit gas flows; the development trends in the gas industry and energetics, and much more.
The paper proposes a procedure (algorithm) for research and decision-making that provides for the mathematical model calibration, scenario formation for the pipeline system development and reconstruction, and analysis and comparison of those scenarios. The procedure focuses on combining formal methods and expert knowledge. The regulatory documents in force are noted to be in unsatisfactory condition, largely outdated, and not targeted to the gas industry development progress.
Keywords: DEVELOPMENT MODELING, GAS TRANSMISSION SYSTEM, RESEARCH ALGORITHM, MATHEMATICAL MODEL CALIBRATION, SCENARIO-BASED APPROACH.