In the vast, untapped expanse beneath the world’s oceans lies a potential game-changer for the energy sector’s battle against climate change. Offshore geological carbon sequestration (GCS) is emerging as a formidable ally in the quest for carbon neutrality, and a recent study published in Energy Reviews, the English translation of ‘Energy Reviews’, is shedding new light on the full-chain technical features that could propel this technology into the mainstream.
At the helm of this research is Ying Teng, a scientist at the State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Construction and Healthy Operation and Maintenance of Deep Underground Engineering, part of Shenzhen University in China. Teng and her team have systematically reviewed the essential geoscience and engineering elements of offshore GCS, providing a comprehensive evaluation of current and planned projects.
Offshore GCS involves injecting captured CO2 into subsea geological formations, where it can be securely trapped for geological timescales. This approach offers several advantages over onshore options, including greater storage capacity, higher public acceptance, and minimized environmental risks to populated regions. “Offshore GCS presents a socially, economically, and environmentally viable pillar for global Carbon Capture and Storage strategies,” Teng asserts.
The study delves into the full GCS chain, from site selection and subsurface characterization to engineering aspects such as platform construction, operational reliability, and risk monitoring. It examines key technical challenges, including trapping efficiency and operational issues, and provides a detailed evaluation of current and planned offshore GCS projects. The findings highlight research priorities and support the advancement of offshore GCS technologies toward safe and effective implementation.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its potential to shape future developments in the energy sector. As the world races to meet carbon neutrality goals, offshore GCS could play a pivotal role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The technology’s ability to leverage subsea geological formations for secure, long-term CO2 storage makes it an attractive option for energy companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Moreover, the study’s detailed evaluation of current and planned projects provides valuable insights for investors and policymakers. By identifying research priorities and addressing key technical challenges, the research paves the way for the safe and effective implementation of offshore GCS technologies.
The energy sector is at a crossroads, and offshore GCS could be the key to unlocking a sustainable future. As Teng and her team continue to push the boundaries of this technology, one thing is clear: the future of carbon sequestration is beneath the waves. The study’s findings, published in Energy Reviews, offer a roadmap for the energy sector to navigate this complex landscape and harness the power of offshore GCS for a greener tomorrow.
