Energy sector launches carbon storage body

London — A group of companies active in the UK energy sector has formed the Carbon Capture & Storage Association (CCSA) to promote the permanent geological storage of carbon dioxide from industry and power generation.

The CCSA aims to expand the use of carbon storage for the reduction of CO2 emissions and so support the continued use of fossil fuels to meet energy needs, according to a 13 March launch statement.

Carbon capture typically involves the use of chemical scrubbers to isolate and remove carbon dioxide from waste gases emitted by power station. Storage involves employing geological strata under the seabed to lock away the emissions – in theory, at least, for hundreds of years. The technology would enable the UK to meet its national and global commitments on reducing emissions, CCSA claims.

"The potential investment in these technologies and hence sustained employment in the energy sector could be valued at many billions of pounds and provide important benefits in terms of energy security, diversity and industrial competitiveness," the association stated.

The CCSA added that it will work with the Government to reduce regulatory obstacles to the deployment of the technology and to improve the fiscal and legislative conditions to promote it early-stage development.

The CCSA was created to work with Government to ensure CCS projects are designed, executed and verified to meet the needs of the society they serve, said Lord Oxburgh, former chairman of Shell Transport and Trading and president of the association.

"A few years ago the idea of carbon capture and storage would have been considered the stuff of science fiction. Today, here and around the world, it is a serious contender in our future arsenal against the potentially devastating effects of climate change," said Malcolm Wicks, the UK Energy Minister.

"The establishment of the Carbon Capture Storage Association is an important step in bringing together the key players to promote the development and demonstration of this exciting emerging technology," added Wicks.

CCSA has 11 founder members — Air Products, Alstom, AMEC, BP, ConocoPhillips, E.ON UK, Mitsui Babcock, Progressive Energy, Schlumberger, Scottish & Southern Energy and Shell.