Innovation Fund Backs Shell and TotalEnergies' CO₂ Storage Initiative

Project Overview

The European Innovation Fund is supporting the development of offshore CO₂ storage sites under the North Sea, known as Launch Stores. These sites are crucial for large-scale CO₂ storage, repurposing depleted gas fields to prevent CO₂ emissions from reaching the atmosphere.

Collaboration and Technology

Shell and TotalEnergies are collaborating on this initiative, utilizing Friction-Controlled Dual-Phase Injection to deliver CO₂ into the storage sites. This method ensures safe and secure storage by managing temperature and pressure changes during the injection process.

Capacity and Impact

The Launch Stores are designed to store up to five megatonnes of CO₂ annually, contributing significantly to Europe's climate targets for 2030 and 2050. The project enhances the CCS value chain and offers scalability for future expansion.

Funding and Development

Funding from the Innovation Fund is essential for the project's financial viability, allowing the repurposing of an existing gas platform and the construction of a new injection platform. This support prevents the financial burden from shifting to CO₂ emitters.

Collaboration and Trust

Successful collaboration between Shell and TotalEnergies was achieved through transparency and mutual trust, particularly during the funding application process. This cooperation has strengthened the partnership and improved project coordination.