Carbon capture and storage (CCS)

Definition

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions produced from the use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and industrial processes, preventing it from entering the atmosphere. CCS involves three main steps: capturing the CO2, transporting it to a storage site, and securely storing it underground. This process is critical for achieving ultra-low emissions and integrating combustion systems with renewable energy sources, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CCS can reduce CO2 emissions from power plants by up to 90%, making it a key technology for meeting climate goals.
2. The captured CO2 can be stored in geological formations for thousands of years, effectively removing it from the carbon cycle.
3. CCS can also enable the continued use of fossil fuels while minimizing their environmental impact, acting as a bridge to a low-carbon future.
4. Developing infrastructure for transporting and storing CO2 is essential for the widespread adoption of CCS technologies.
5. The successful implementation of CCS can enhance the viability of hybrid systems that combine fossil fuel combustion with renewable energy sources.

Review Questions

• How does carbon capture and storage contribute to ultra-low emission combustion systems?
  • Carbon capture and storage plays a crucial role in ultra-low emission combustion systems by significantly reducing the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere during fossil fuel combustion. By capturing up to 90% of CO2 emissions before they can escape, CCS technologies help meet stringent emissions regulations and facilitate the transition towards cleaner energy generation. This allows for continued use of fossil fuels while ensuring that environmental impacts are minimized, ultimately contributing to cleaner air and combating climate change.
• Discuss the challenges associated with the transportation and storage of captured carbon dioxide in the context of integrating combustion with renewable energy systems.
  • Integrating combustion with renewable energy systems presents several challenges related to the transportation and storage of captured carbon dioxide. One major issue is developing the necessary infrastructure to transport CO2 from power plants to suitable storage sites, which may be located far away. Additionally, ensuring that these storage sites are secure and capable of containing CO2 over long periods is critical. Addressing these logistical challenges is essential for the effective implementation of CCS technologies in a hybrid energy framework that combines fossil fuels with renewable sources.
• Evaluate the potential impact of widespread adoption of carbon capture and storage on global carbon emissions reduction efforts.
  • The widespread adoption of carbon capture and storage could significantly impact global carbon emissions reduction efforts by enabling substantial cuts in emissions from major industrial sources and power plants. By facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy while still utilizing fossil fuels, CCS can serve as an essential tool in bridging the gap between current energy needs and future sustainability goals. If implemented at scale, CCS technologies could contribute to achieving net-zero emissions targets, supporting international climate agreements, and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on ecosystems and human health.

Related terms

Carbon dioxide removal (CDR): A set of technologies and practices aimed at removing CO2 from the atmosphere and reducing its concentration in order to mitigate climate change.

Geological sequestration: The process of storing captured CO2 in underground geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers, to prevent its release into the atmosphere.

Renewable energy integration: The process of combining renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, with existing energy systems to create a more sustainable energy infrastructure.