Carbon Capture and Storage

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology has evolved and it is considered that within the near future it will be possible to install large scale CCS facilities based on commercially available technologies. This technology, along with the stringent emissions standards, means that the burning of fossil fuels should no longer be considered a “dirty” means of generating electricity.

CCS works by capturing carbon dioxide at source rather than releasing it into the atmosphere. The CO2 is captured from the flue gases and is compressed into a dense liquid-like state. A pipeline or tanker then transports it to an offshore facility, where it is injected into geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields below the seabed.

This technology has the potential to capture up to 90% of the CO2 emissions generated by burning fossil fuels.

The CCS process

1. CO2 is captured at the power plant.
2. CO2 is processed and compressed.
3. CO2 is piped or shipped offshore to a former gas or oil field.
4. CO2 is injected under pressure into the storage site.