China’s PetroChina and state-owned pipeline operator PipeChina have jointly established two major gas storage companies, advancing Beijing’s broader push to expand natural gas capacity and strengthen energy security amid rising demand.

Corporate registration records show the new ventures — Liaohe Gas Storage in northeast China and Xinjiang Gas Storage in the northwest — were formally created this week with combined registered capital exceeding 25.6 billion yuan ($3.62 billion). Liaohe will focus on storage and logistics, while Xinjiang will oversee gas production and supply.