Combining Science, Technology and Economics for Making CO2 Capture and Storage Integral in Sustainable Energy Transition

Abstract

Sustainable economic development and environment protection is pivotal for life on earth. GHG emission is increasing and adversely impacting the ecosystem. Geological storage of CO2, the major GHG in offshore saline aquifers and depleted hydrocarbon fields are preferred option. Such projects are continuously increasing in numbers. However, apprehensions are envisaged for adverse impact on marine environment. Marine environment is already under threat due to human activities and is getting loaded with pollutants generated both onshore and offshore. Fuel used in shipping industry, waste and garbage generated onboard, offshore gas flaring, oil spills, noise, and ozone layer depletion due to CFCs etc are major reasons. Scientists and engineers are clear about scientific aspects of CO2 storage, but doubt persists in public's mind about its safety and reliability. Additionally, they have syndrome of not in my backyard. CO2 eruption had happened in the past in Lake Nyos causing death of humans & livestock. Numerous steps are being taken to mitigate the effects of marine pollution and if leakage from of subsurface engineered CO2 storage happens, then it will further worsen by acidification, changing seawater pH endangering the lives of marine organisms and humans. This study presents one of the major means of managing unavoidable CO2 emission by CCS in ocean and highlighting all the influencing elements and stake holders which can make this effort a silver bullet to protect marine environment. Study presents technically sound offshore storage development plan including social, legal, political, economics, regulatory, governance and certification dimensions ensuring the projects acceptability. Role of energy industry professionals, media and NGOs are identified to propagate the awareness among the masses dispelling social concerns about the stability of long-term CO2 storage along with supporting studies for dispelling doubts for earthquake and microseismic activities. Role of Governments is important and critical for suitable legislation, regulations and financial incentives for CCS which makes the green energy sources expensive. Comprehensive measurement, monitoring, and verification (MMV) plans designed using state-of-art tools and simulation studies conducted to ensure adequate monitoring of the subsurface, surface, and marine environment including remedial actions if it happens unexpectedly. An integrated SDP including dispersion modelling studies suggests unlikely leakage of CO2 at seabed in qualified storage site and not affecting the marine environment. Adherence to standard SOP for planning, implementation, operation, monitoring, remediation and post closure is must. Marine monitoring is challenging because of huge area and the limited spatial and temporal leakage events and huge variability. Strategies are developed to ensure adequate adaptive monitoring of the marine environment without introducing prohibitive costs and identifying knowledge gaps for future research and technology developments.