In the heart of Sulawesi, Indonesia, a region known for its geological complexity, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we understand and mitigate seismic risks, particularly for critical infrastructure like Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) facilities. The Malili-Matano Region (MMR), nestled near active faults such as the Matano Fault Zone (MFZ), is a hotspot for seismic activity, making it a high-stakes area for energy development.
Asdani Soehaimi, a leading researcher from the Research Center for Geological Disaster at the National Research and Innovation Agency in Bandung, West Java, has been at the forefront of this crucial research. His team’s recent study, published in Environmental Challenges, delves into the seismotectonic characteristics and seismic hazards of the MMR, providing invaluable insights for infrastructure planning and CCS deployment.
The study integrates seismotectonic mapping and Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis (PSHA) to evaluate earthquake risks. This approach is particularly relevant for CCS facilities, which require robust structural integrity to ensure the safe storage of captured carbon dioxide. “Understanding the seismic hazards in this region is not just about safety; it’s about ensuring the long-term viability of our energy infrastructure,” Soehaimi emphasizes.
One of the key findings is the elevated Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) and Spectral Acceleration (PSA) values in the MMR. The study reports PSA values of 1.10 g at 0.2 seconds and 0.55 g at 1 second for Site Class SB under a 2% probability of exceedance in 50 years. These figures indicate that the region experiences significant seismic activity, necessitating stringent design standards for any infrastructure developed there.
For the energy sector, these findings are a wake-up call. CCS facilities, which are crucial for reducing carbon emissions, must be designed to withstand these seismic challenges. This means adhering to Seismic Design Category D standards, which include reinforced foundations and real-time ground motion monitoring. “The structural resilience of CCS facilities is paramount,” Soehaimi notes. “We need to ensure that these facilities can withstand the seismic stresses they will encounter.”
The implications for commercial energy projects are profound. Investors and developers must factor in these seismic risks when planning CCS facilities in the MMR. This includes not only the initial design and construction but also ongoing seismic monitoring and hazard mitigation strategies. The study underscores the importance of continuous seismic monitoring, hazard mitigation strategies, and risk communication for infrastructure resilience in seismically active environments.
This research is set to influence future developments in the field significantly. It provides a refined understanding of seismotectonic behavior in the MMR, which is essential for CCS site selection and long-term sustainability. As the energy sector continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on carbon capture and storage, studies like this will be instrumental in ensuring that these facilities are safe, reliable, and resilient.
The findings published in Environmental Challenges (translated from Indonesian as Environmental Challenges) offer a roadmap for future infrastructure development in seismically active regions. They highlight the need for rigorous seismic hazard assessments and the implementation of robust design standards. As Soehaimi and his team continue their work, the energy sector can look forward to more informed and resilient infrastructure planning, paving the way for a sustainable energy future.
