Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is gaining prominence not only for enhanced oil recovery but also as a critical solution for decarbonizing challenging industries. The maritime sector is poised to play a key role in transporting captured CO2 to storage sites. However, the limited size of the existing CO2 fleet and practical challenges in handling this unique cargo present complexities and risks that require careful consideration.
Challenges in CO2 Carriage
CO2 has distinct characteristics that make its sea transport challenging. It necessitates pressure and refrigeration for liquid form carriage, posing operational complexities such as freezing risks and the need for precise temperature and pressure control. Larger-scale CO2 transport for CCS, drawing from experiences in handling LPG and LNG, introduces unique challenges like impurities and boil-off management.
Practical Issues and Risks
Despite being non-flammable, CO2 leakage can have serious consequences, from asphyxiation risks to potential harm in port areas. The 2005 IPCC report highlights the dangers, and incidents like the 2008 leakage in Germany underscore the need for robust safety measures. Boil-off during carriage and impurities in industrial CO2 emissions present operational challenges that need careful mitigation.
Global Scale and Opportunities
The global imperative to achieve net-zero commitments requires a substantial increase in CCS capacity. While pipelines offer cost-efficiency, maritime transport becomes crucial for longer distances. The estimated 2,000 to 13,000 gigatonnes of offshore storage capacity globally, particularly in regions like Korea, Japan, and the North Sea, further emphasizes the potential scale of seaborne CO2 transport.
Current Fleet and Future Prospects
The current CO2 fleet is limited, with only four vessels in operation. The future outlook includes the construction of additional vessels, with some designed for multiple liquefied gases. Practical experiences from existing food-grade CO2 transport are informative, but the shift to industrial CO2 with impurities requires the development of new sampling and testing protocols.
Liabilities and Insurance
The potential risks associated with CO2 carriage, including leakage and contamination, pose challenges for insurers. The financial value of escaped CO2, potential penalties, and personal injury claims require a nuanced approach to coverage. The impending 2010 HNS Convention may provide a liability framework, but uncertainties remain regarding its application and interpretation by national jurisdictions.
In navigating the uncharted waters of CO2 carriage, stakeholders must address technological, safety, and regulatory challenges to unlock the full potential of this critical element in the journey towards a sustainable future.
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Source: gard
