A discussion covers the cost effective optimization of underground storage operation by application of continuum damage mechanics (CDM). The topics include the initial situation and calculational model; mountain model; simulated operation cycle; evaluation criteria with classical sizing; variations calculations to determine the admissible minimal pressure without explicit consideration of structural damages; variations calculations to determine the admissible minimal pressure with consideration of structural damages (Hou/Lux model); and conclusion. Two themes from underground storage caverns in salt formation were treated, namely, the parameter determination for the material model of Hou/Lux from laboratory tests and the effects of this material model on cavern design.