What Does It Take To Evaluate A Potential CO2 Storage Site? The ZeroGen Example

Abstract

The effort, timeline and budget required for CO2 storage site characterization is often underestimated. Depending upon geology, volumes and composition of the CO2 stream to be stored, data acquisition, that may involve appraisal wells, injection tests, Special Core Analysis (SCAL), geomechanical and geochemical experiments, the timeline to conduct the site characterization may run into years and the budget required into tens of millions of dollars. Experience in site characterization, in many different CO2 storage projects, has enabled a "roadmap" to be developed showing key decisions and work activities from initial screening through to the final investment decision. The primary focus of the roadmap is on the work scope of an integrated subsurface team, but it is part of a broader integrated set of activities which include capture, transportation, and storage elements. This roadmap has been used in the characterization of a CO2 Storage Site for ZeroGen in Queensland, Australia. For each phase of the project, work activities are directed at reducing uncertainties to the point that key project decisions can be taken. The culmination is a final CO2 Storage Site Development Plan. Interdisciplinary risk and uncertainty assessments are key steps along the way which drive appraisal and data collection tactics. As new data is assimilated into the site assessment the work proceeds, in an iterative manner, as the views on Storage Site Capacity, Injectivity and Containment evolve. Throughout the site characterization phases, common threads, like the Monitoring Measurement and Verification strategy, are matured from an initial range of identified approaches and technologies into an Operating Philosophy. Constant and early attention and priority is given to Heath, Safety, Environmental and Community issues throughout the work activities and milestone reviews. Besides our personal and corporate responsibility to the community and environment, establishing a strong record of safe and responsible operations will be an enabler towards public acceptance, cost effectiveness and schedule reduction for future projects. Early and constant community consultation is a critical issue to ensure public understanding and acceptance of CCS.