Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is a crucial technology in the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. In Alberta, Canada, where the energy sector is a significant contributor to the economy, CCUS has become an essential tool for reducing the carbon footprint of industrial activities. This guide provides an in-depth look at how carbon capture works, its applications, and the current state of CCUS technology in Alberta.
What is Carbon Capture?
Carbon capture is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from various sources, such as power plants, industrial processes, and natural gas processing facilities. The captured CO2 can then be utilized or stored, preventing it from entering the atmosphere and contributing to climate change. There are several methods of carbon capture, including post-combustion capture, pre-combustion capture, and oxyfuel combustion.
Post-Combustion Capture
Post-combustion capture involves capturing CO2 from the flue gas of a power plant or industrial facility after combustion has occurred. This method uses a chemical solvent to absorb the CO2 from the flue gas, which is then released and captured. The solvent is then regenerated, allowing it to be reused. Post-combustion capture is the most common method of carbon capture and is widely used in the power and industrial sectors.
Pre-Combustion Capture
Pre-combustion capture involves capturing CO2 before combustion occurs. This method is typically used in integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plants, where fuel is converted into a synthesis gas (syngas) before being burned to produce electricity. The CO2 is removed from the syngas before combustion, reducing the amount of CO2 emitted. Pre-combustion capture is considered a more efficient method of carbon capture than post-combustion capture.
Oxyfuel Combustion
Oxyfuel combustion involves burning fuel in pure oxygen instead of air, which produces a flue gas that is primarily CO2 and water vapor. The CO2 can then be captured and utilized or stored. Oxyfuel combustion is considered a promising method of carbon capture, as it produces a high-purity CO2 stream that can be easily captured and utilized.
| Carbon Capture Method | Efficacy | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Combustion Capture | 80-90% | $50-70 per tonne |
| Pre-Combustion Capture | 90-95% | $30-50 per tonne |
| Oxyfuel Combustion | 95-99% | $70-100 per tonne |
Carbon Utilization and Storage
Once CO2 is captured, it can be utilized or stored. Carbon utilization involves using the captured CO2 as a feedstock for various products, such as chemicals, fuels, and building materials. Carbon storage, on the other hand, involves storing the CO2 in geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas fields or saline aquifers.
Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)
EOR is a widely used method of carbon utilization, where CO2 is injected into oil fields to increase oil production. The CO2 helps to mobilize the oil, making it easier to extract. EOR is a win-win for the oil and gas industry, as it increases oil production while storing CO2.
Carbon Storage
Carbon storage involves injecting CO2 into geological formations, where it is trapped and prevented from entering the atmosphere. Carbon storage is considered a crucial component of CCUS, as it provides a permanent solution for reducing CO2 emissions. Alberta has several large-scale carbon storage projects, including the Quest CCS project and the Alberta Carbon Trunk Line.
| Carbon Storage Project | Location | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Quest CCS | Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta | 1.2 million tonnes per year |
| Alberta Carbon Trunk Line | Central Alberta | 1.6 million tonnes per year |
What is the current state of carbon capture technology in Alberta?
+Alberta is a leader in carbon capture technology, with several large-scale CCUS projects in operation. The province has invested heavily in CCUS research and development, and has implemented policies to support the adoption of CCUS technology.
How much does carbon capture cost?
+The cost of carbon capture varies depending on the method and technology used. Post-combustion capture typically costs between $50-70 per tonne, while pre-combustion capture costs between $30-50 per tonne. Oxyfuel combustion is the most expensive method, costing between $70-100 per tonne.
In conclusion, carbon capture is a critical technology for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Alberta is at the forefront of CCUS development, with several large-scale projects in operation and a strong focus on research and development. As the technology continues to evolve and improve, it is likely that CCUS will play an increasingly important role in reducing emissions and creating a more sustainable energy future.
