In the quest for carbon neutrality, China is setting its sights on an innovative strategy: capturing carbon emissions on land and storing them offshore. This approach, known as “carbon capture ashore and storage offshore,” is gaining traction as a crucial component of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) solutions. A recent study published in China Engineering Science, led by Zhengxian Yang from the National Marine Environmental Monitoring Center in Dalian, explores the future prospects and development pathways of this technology in China.
The concept is straightforward yet ambitious: capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial sources on land and transport it to offshore storage sites, typically depleted oil and gas reservoirs or saline aquifers beneath the seabed. This method not only reduces atmospheric CO2 levels but also leverages China’s extensive coastline and maritime infrastructure.
Yang and his team reviewed the progress of this technology from various angles, including process characteristics, development potentials, and international project advancements. They highlight that while the idea is forward-looking, it is also urgent, given China’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
“The development of ‘carbon capture ashore and storage offshore’ in China can be divided into three stages,” Yang explains. “First, project planning and research, followed by small-scale demonstrations, and finally, large-scale commercial application.” This phased approach is crucial for ensuring the technology’s viability and scalability.
The study identifies several challenges that need to be addressed. Economic costs, leakage risks, storage efficiency, policy management, and international cooperation are all critical factors. Yang emphasizes the need for a comprehensive regulatory system to enhance risk prevention and control. “Small-scale pilot projects should be initiated to prudently drive industrialization,” he advises. “The market’s pivotal role should be leveraged, with enterprises leading commercial applications.”
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. Offshore carbon storage could become a lucrative business, creating new opportunities for energy companies and maritime industries. It could also drive innovation in carbon capture technologies, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
Moreover, this approach aligns with China’s broader strategy of land-sea collaborative carbon reduction. By integrating onshore and offshore carbon management, China can maximize its carbon reduction efforts and contribute to global climate goals.
The study predicts a development timeline toward 2060, with key milestones to be achieved in each phase. It recommends focusing on these milestones and introducing supportive policies to ensure steady progress.
As China moves forward with this strategy, the rest of the world will be watching. The success of “carbon capture ashore and storage offshore” in China could pave the way for similar initiatives in other countries, shaping the future of carbon management and the energy sector. The research, published in China Engineering Science, which translates to English as ‘Chinese Engineering Science,’ provides a roadmap for this journey, offering insights and recommendations that could guide policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers alike.