About this Training Course
The successful deployment of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) projects depends on more than the performance of capture technology alone. Project viability is often determined by the effective integration of capture, conditioning, transport, storage, safety, regulatory requirements, commercial considerations, and long-term operational strategy across the entire value chain.
This three-day professional training programme provides participants with a practical understanding of how transport and storage considerations influence project feasibility, cost, risk, scalability, and investment decisions. The programme combines classroom-based learning with a site visit to Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM), allowing participants to connect theory with observations from the world's largest carbon capture technology test facility.
The course focuses on systems integration and project decision-making rather than detailed pipeline engineering design calculations or specialist reservoir modelling.
1. What is CO₂ transport and storage in CCUS?
CO₂ transport and storage refer to the movement and long-term containment of captured carbon dioxide. First, operators compress and condition the CO₂ after capture. Then, they transport it via pipelines or ships to designated storage locations. Finally, engineers inject the CO₂ into deep underground formations. As a result, CO₂ transport and storage play a critical role in reducing industrial emissions and supporting carbon reduction strategies.
2. What are the main methods of CO₂ transport and storage?
Generally, companies use pipelines and shipping for CO₂ transport and storage. For instance, pipelines allow continuous and cost-efficient transport over shorter distances. In contrast, shipping provides flexibility for offshore or long-distance projects. In some cases, developers combine both methods with intermediate storage to optimise logistics. Therefore, the choice depends on project scale, distance, and infrastructure availability.
3. Why is CO₂ quality important for transport and storage?
CO₂ quality directly impacts the safety and efficiency of transport and storage systems. For example, impurities such as water or sulfur compounds can cause corrosion and damage infrastructure. To address this, engineers remove contaminants through conditioning processes like dehydration. Moreover, high-quality CO₂ ensures stable flow and protects pipelines and storage sites. Consequently, proper quality control reduces risks and improves system reliability.
4. Where is CO₂ stored in CCUS projects?
CO₂ transport and storage systems typically use geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields and deep saline aquifers. On one hand, depleted reservoirs offer known performance and existing infrastructure. On the other hand, saline formations provide large storage capacity for long-term use. Additionally, projects may use either onshore or offshore sites depending on regulatory and economic factors. Thus, storage selection depends on safety, capacity, and location.
5. What challenges affect CO₂ transport and storage?
Several challenges influence CO₂ transport and storage projects. First, high capital costs and regulatory complexity can slow development. Next, technical issues such as corrosion and flow assurance require careful engineering. Furthermore, long-term liability and environmental concerns add uncertainty. However, strong planning and risk management strategies can help organisations overcome these barriers and improve project outcomes.
6. How do transport and storage decisions affect project economics?
Transport and storage decisions significantly shape the economics of CCUS projects. For example, infrastructure investments—including pipelines, compressors, and storage facilities—represent major costs. Meanwhile, the choice between pipeline and shipping options affects both capital and operating expenses. Therefore, integrated planning helps optimise costs and improve scalability. In turn, this strengthens the overall feasibility of CO₂ transport and storage systems.