In the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is positioning itself as a pioneer in the global effort to achieve net-zero emissions, thanks to groundbreaking research on bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). A recent study, led by Suparit Tangparitkul from Chiang Mai University’s Department of Mining and Petroleum Engineering, has unveiled promising findings that could reshape the energy landscape in Northern Thailand and beyond.
The research, published in the journal ‘Carbon Capture Science & Technology’ (translated from Thai as ‘วิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยีการจับกักคาร์บอน’), focuses on the potential of onshore saline formations in the Lampang and Nong Bua Basins to store carbon dioxide (CO₂) captured from bioenergy processes. This approach, known as BECCS, combines renewable energy production with CO₂ sequestration, offering a dual benefit of clean energy generation and carbon reduction.
Tangparitkul and his team conducted numerical simulations to assess the storage capacities and containment mechanisms of these geological formations. Their findings are nothing short of remarkable. The Lampang and Nong Bua Basins boast a combined dynamic storage capacity of 29 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa), with the BECCS cluster designed to store 10 Mtpa. Notably, the Lampang Basin alone can accommodate an additional 15 Mtpa from a nearby coal-fired power plant, presenting a significant opportunity for decarbonization in the region.
One of the key insights from the study is the role of reservoir heterogeneity in enhancing storage containment. “The stratigraphic heterogeneity of the reservoir actually improves residual and solubility trapping,” Tangparitkul explained. This means that the natural variations in the geological formations can help trap CO₂ more effectively, ensuring long-term storage and containment.
The economic implications of this research are substantial. The levelized cost of CO₂ storage was estimated at $7.99 per tonne for a 35-year injection period and $8.23 per tonne for a 25-year period. Operational costs account for more than half of the total cost, highlighting the need for efficient management and technological advancements to drive down expenses.
These cost estimates align with global benchmarks, validating the methodology and reflecting Thailand-specific conditions. The study not only underscores the feasibility of BECCS deployment in Thailand but also presents a scalable and cost-effective solution for CO₂ sequestration. This could pave the way for similar initiatives in other regions, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.
The research offers a robust framework for integrating geomechanics, reservoir heterogeneity, and cost modeling in carbon capture and storage (CCS) design. This holistic approach could set a new standard for future CCS projects, ensuring that they are not only technically feasible but also economically viable.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, innovative solutions like BECCS are crucial. Tangparitkul’s work in Northern Thailand serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right technology and strategic planning, it is possible to achieve net-zero emissions and build a sustainable future. The energy sector stands on the brink of a new era, and this research could be the catalyst that propels it forward.
