Discover the latest developments in carbon capture and storage initiatives in our 79th edition of The Carbon Corner. From major investments by tech giants like Google to strategic partnerships between energy companies and government initiatives, the landscape of carbon capture technologies is rapidly evolving.
Today we cover it all!
SLB's $380 Million Deal with Aker Carbon Capture: Accelerating Industrial Decarbonization
Global technology giant SLB has inked a deal to acquire an 80% stake in Aker Carbon Capture Holding for $380 million, aimed at bolstering industrial decarbonization efforts. This partnership aims to expedite the integration of disruptive early-stage technology into the global market on a commercial scale.
SLB has the potential to make additional payments totaling up to $125 million over the next three years contingent on business performance. CEO Olivier Le Peuch emphasized the necessity of scaling carbon capture technologies significantly to support global Net Zero objectives, particularly in lowering capture costs, which often constitute a substantial portion of CCUS project expenses. The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals, is slated to conclude by the end of the second quarter of 2024.
ZeoDAC: Pioneering Economic Carbon Capture & Sustainable Solutions with Coca-Cola Investment
A promising newcomer in the direct air capture (DAC) arena, ZeoDAC, has garnered investments from notable names like Coca-Cola, Caltech, and Wilson Hill Ventures, among others. Founded by Professors Christopher Jones from Georgia Tech and Mark Davis from Caltech, ZeoDAC aims to revolutionize large-scale carbon capture and utilization economically. Their innovative CO2 capture process utilizes robust solid sorbents and energy-efficient adsorption cycles, garnering attention and investment from both venture capital and strategic investors.
ZeoDAC doesn't stop at carbon capture; they also target water capture to produce valuable end-products, aligning environmental sustainability with economic returns. Coca-Cola, one of their investors, sees potential in sourcing sustainable materials through DAC, applauding ZeoDAC's affordability, scalability, and energy efficiency. With confidence in ZeoDAC's novel approach, stakeholders anticipate its ascent as a major player in the DAC industry, poised to make a significant impact on environmental sustainability.
LSU Expands Carbon Capture Research with New Well: Advancing CCUS Technology
LSU's College of Engineering is set to enhance its carbon capture research capabilities with the addition of a new well on campus, expanding its Petroleum Engineering Research, Training, and Testing Lab. Unlike traditional oil drilling, these wells facilitate research into carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), simulating real-world conditions without fluid injection.
The upcoming well will specifically focus on CO2-related research, providing insights into the dynamics and technology of underground CO2 injection. While CCUS technology aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it remains relatively nascent, with Louisiana at the forefront of proposed projects despite community skepticism.
Funded by federal and state resources alongside industry contributions, the new facility underscores LSU's commitment to advancing carbon capture research. Expected to involve numerous faculty and students, the facility will address critical issues such as leak detection, safety, and sustainability, positioning LSU as a key player in the evolving landscape of CCUS research and development.
U.S. Cement Industry Receives $6 Billion Boost to Tackle Carbon Emissions
The U.S. cement industry, responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, received a substantial boost from the Biden administration with $6 billion earmarked for 33 demonstration projects targeting decarbonization in heavy industrial sectors. Six projects, sharing $1.5 billion, focus on reducing the carbon footprint of cement production through diverse approaches. The complexity of cement's emissions challenge requires multifaceted solutions, addressing both fossil fuel usage and chemical processes.
The Department of Energy estimates that a third of cement emissions can be eliminated by the early 2030s using established technologies, while the remainder will necessitate substantial investments and innovative strategies. Projects funded by the recent grants range from alternative cement materials and manufacturing methods to carbon capture and utilization, aiming to revolutionize the industry's environmental impact. Although challenges remain, such as pipeline infrastructure for carbon sequestration and market acceptance of alternative cements, these initiatives represent significant progress towards a lower-carbon future for cement production.
Tenaska Unveils Longleaf CCS Hub: A Catalyst for Sustainable Economic Growth in Alabama
Tenaska, a renowned U.S. energy company, has unveiled the Longleaf CCS Hub, a groundbreaking carbon capture and storage (CCS) project slated for Mobile County. Aimed at assisting various industries in South Alabama to comply with emissions regulations, this initiative promises economic growth and job opportunities for the region.
Joel Link, president of Tenaska's Development Group, highlighted the project's role in fostering economic resilience and sustainability in Alabama. The launch event at the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum saw participation from key stakeholders, endorsing the project's innovative approach to CO2 management. Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson emphasized the importance of carbon capture and storage technologies in addressing environmental and business challenges. Supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, the Longleaf CCS Hub is set to commence construction by late 2025, positioning Alabama as a leader in sustainable economic development. With extensive experience in the energy sector, Tenaska's Longleaf CCS Hub exemplifies its commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
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