Jack-up platform to carry out a comprehensive ground investigation for a ground-breaking new CO2 highway, off the coast of Belgium. Source: GeoDrilling International (image by Fugro)
The European CO₂ Highway, a groundbreaking initiative, aims to transport captured carbon from major industrial hubs in Northwestern Europe to secure storage sites in Norway’s North Sea. This extensive 1,000-kilometer pipeline, set to launch by 2030, is poised to be a cornerstone of Europe’s efforts to meet climate goals, providing a cost-efficient and sustainable solution for carbon transport and storage.
The CO₂ Highway is integral to the Smeaheia project, which seeks to develop cutting-edge CO₂ storage facilities with a projected annual capacity of 30–50 million tonnes by 2035. Together, these projects represent a leap forward in creating a unified, large-scale infrastructure for carbon capture and storage (CCS), reducing emissions from industries across Europe.
The Smeaheia Project: A Game-Changer for CCS
The Smeaheia project builds on Equinor's 25 years of expertise in CCS, with a vision to transform the Norwegian Continental Shelf into Europe’s premier carbon storage hub. Located near the Troll field, Smeaheia leverages its well-surveyed reservoirs for CO₂ injection, capable of storing up to 1,000 years of Norway's emissions.
Two transport concepts are being evaluated for the project:
Pipeline Solution: A pipeline connecting Northwestern Europe to the Smeaheia storage site, offering lower transport costs and reduced lifecycle emissions.
Ship Transport: Utilizing onshore receiving terminals and additional pipelines for CO₂ delivery to storage wells.
These dual approaches ensure flexibility, efficiency, and scalability, reinforcing Europe’s CCS capabilities. Strategic partnerships, like those with Fluxys in Belgium and Wintershall DEA in Germany, are essential for aligning infrastructure development with emissions reduction timelines.
Detailed Map of Smeaheia developed transport and storage. Source: Equinor
CO₂ Highway Progress and Geotechnical Insights
A pivotal component of the CO₂ Highway is the comprehensive geotechnical investigation underway at Zeebrugge, Belgium. This includes advanced borehole drilling, downhole cone penetration tests (CPTs), and UXO surveys to ensure a safe and efficient pipeline installation. Utilizing innovative equipment, such as liveaboard jack-up platforms, enables year-round operations and minimizes disruptions.
The project also emphasizes sustainable engineering solutions, employing robust designs to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Insights gained from these investigations will guide pipeline construction under challenging terrains, ensuring stability and safety throughout the infrastructure’s lifecycle.
The seismic vessel PGS Ramform Vanguard. Source: Equinor (image by Ole Jørgen Bratland)
Toward a Low-Carbon Future
The collaboration between the CO₂ Highway and Smeaheia underscores the importance of large-scale CCS projects in addressing global climate challenges. By integrating innovative technologies, strategic partnerships, and a shared commitment to sustainability, these projects exemplify how engineering and collaboration can pave the way for a low-carbon future.
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