As the push for decarbonization accelerates, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) has emerged as a key technology. With power and industry responsible for more than 30% of global CO₂ emissions, CCS offers hope for sectors struggling to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
The International Energy Agency emphasizes that there's no path to Net Zero without CCS, projecting it will contribute to more than 15% of CO₂ emissions reduction by 2050. Recent developments are promising, with global storage capacity increasing 50% to 350 million tons per annum.
However, implementing CCS systems presents technical and economic challenges that demand innovative solutions. Integrated Asset Modeling (IAM) offers a strategic approach to navigate these complexities. Here are five reasons why IAM is vital for the success of CCS projects:
1. Ensures Consistent System Design
IAM integrates surface facilities, reservoirs, and transportation networks into a unified model, as shown in Figure 1. This holistic approach minimizes mismatches between emitters, pipelines, and storage systems by maintaining consistent thermodynamic properties across the network. Such alignment is crucial for avoiding operational inefficiencies and ensuring that facilities can adapt to changing conditions over time.
2. Optimizes Transportation Strategies
CO₂ transportation in pipelines requires maintaining single-phase, supercritical conditions for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. IAM tools, like Maximus®, evaluate pressure, temperature, and composition profiles to optimize pipeline design and operation. They help mitigate risks such as liquid dropout or hydrate formation, which can compromise flow assurance.
3. Balances Cost and Performance
IAM allows operators to evaluate trade-offs between operational strategies and capital expenditure. For instance, balancing compression costs with heating options ensures that projects remain financially viable without compromising safety or efficiency. By identifying physical constraints and pinch points, IAM optimizes infrastructure investments and reduces unexpected costs.
4. Supports Phase Development and Risk Mitigation
CCS projects often involve phased implementation, starting with a few emitters and gradually expanding. As illustrated in Figure 2, an IAM approach will help engineers predict how changes in network composition and reservoir behavior will impact operations over time. This proactive approach enables operators to identify and mitigate risks, such as pressure buildups or compressor overloads, before they escalate.
5. Enables Data-Driven Decision-Making
IAM leverages advanced simulation tools to provide actionable insights. From real-time monitoring of CO₂ purity to forecasting long-term reservoir performance, these models empower stakeholders to make informed decisions based on reliable data. As CCS systems scale, IAM will be essential for adapting to new challenges and optimizing performance.
By addressing these critical areas, IAM not only enhances the technical feasibility of CCS projects but also ensures their economic sustainability. As the industry gains experience and real-world data, tools like IAM will continue to evolve, driving the success of CCS initiatives. This progress is essential in our journey towards achieving net-zero emissions and, ultimately, in Bringing Decarbonization to Life®.
For more insight on the importance of IAM in optimizing CCS projects, please watch the Importance of Integrated Asset Modeling in CCS Applications webinar.