In the quest to mitigate climate change, the energy sector is increasingly looking towards Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) as a powerful tool. A recent study published in ‘Umweltforschung Briefs’ has shed new light on the prospects and challenges of this technology, offering insights that could reshape the industry’s approach to carbon management.
The research, led by Tobias Heimann of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, involved a global online expert survey with 32 participants. The goal was to gather detailed estimates on the technological aspects of BECCS, including its development potential, biomass use, operating costs, capture potential, and scalability across various sectors.
The findings underscore the significant promise of BECCS, particularly in regions like Europe and North America. Experts see tremendous potential in applying BECCS to the liquid biofuel industry and thermal power generation. “The implementation of BECCS in these sectors is very likely,” Heimann noted, highlighting the technology’s versatility and scalability.
However, the study also revealed stark differences in perspectives between experts from the Global North and the Global South. This disparity underscores the need for a more inclusive approach to carbon dioxide removal methods, ensuring that voices from all regions are heard and considered. “It is crucial to include experts from the Global South in discussions on carbon dioxide removal methods,” Heimann emphasized.
The technical estimates provided by the experts offer a clearer picture of BECCS’s economic viability. Operating costs for BECCS in thermal power generation were estimated to range from 100 to 200 USD per tonne of CO2 captured. The CO2 capture potential was projected to be between 50 and 200 million tonnes per year by 2030, with a 20% increase in cost-efficiency by 2050 due to technological advancements.
These findings are particularly significant for the energy sector, as they provide a more precise framework for modelling BECCS production. The wide range of estimates in the literature has often made it challenging for companies to invest in BECCS with confidence. However, this study offers a more detailed and consistent set of estimates, which could pave the way for more informed decision-making and investment strategies.
The commercial implications are substantial. As the energy sector grapples with the need to reduce emissions, BECCS offers a pathway to substitute fossil fuels with a more sustainable alternative. The technology’s potential to capture and store CO2 while generating energy could revolutionize power production and biofuel industries, making them more environmentally friendly and economically viable.
The study also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary model approaches in assessing the broader impacts of BECCS. These models must consider not only the technological aspects but also the feedback effects on land use, agricultural and forest products markets, biodiversity, and water resources. This holistic approach is essential for understanding the long-term sustainability of BECCS and its role in achieving global climate goals.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research could shape future developments in BECCS technology. By providing more precise estimates and highlighting the need for inclusive discussions, the study lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and equitable approach to carbon management. The findings could influence policy decisions, investment strategies, and technological advancements, ultimately contributing to a greener and more resilient energy landscape.
