SINTEF to lead new research centre on carbon capture

“CCS deployment at a gigaton scale is vital for a just and sustainable transition to net-zero emissions,” said Research Director at SINTEF Energy Research and Director of the Norwegian CCS Research Centre (NCCS), Mona Mølnvik, who will also lead gigaCCS.

With an ambitious eight-year timeline spanning from 2025 to 2032, gigaCCS aims to build upon the successes of its predecessor, NCCS, to drive frontier research, foster innovation, and cultivate a new generation of CCS specialists.

The imperative for scaling up CCS deployment resonates globally. According to the International Energy Agency, CCS stands as a 'crucial' tool for achieving climate targets, offering a pathway to decarbonise challenging sectors and facilitate negative-emission technologies. gigaCCS will confront this challenge head-on by developing new, advanced technologies that enhance value and mitigate risk for both industry and society. As such, gigaCCS acts not only as an area for climate solutions but also an engine for sustainable economic development

By fostering collaboration between 43 R&D and industry partners, along with over 30 associated partners, gigaCCS ensures its research remains pertinent and impactful. The Norwegian R&D partners include the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the University of Oslo (UiO), NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE), the University in Bergen (UiB) and the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI). This collaborative approach accelerates the translation of laboratory innovations into real-world applications, bolstering Norway's competitive edge in global markets.

“Promising news is coming from the CCS world. Shortly after the award of the centre, Norway signed a Memorandum of Understanding on CO₂ transport and storage with Sweden, Denmark, Belgium and the Netherlands. The work that will be conducted through gigaCCS couldn't be more relevant,” said Mølnvik.

Beyond research, gigaCCS prioritises education, aiming to train at least 28 PhD candidates and over 50 MSc and BSc students. By integrating students into its core activities, gigaCCS not only shapes the next generation of industry professionals but also safeguards the future of CCS technology.

gigaCCS, hosted by SINTEF, represents the latest endeavour in the realm of Centres for Environment-Friendly Energy Research (FMEs), epitomising targeted, long-term research efforts conducted at a high international standard. With industry contributions accounting for at least one-third of its funding, gigaCCS is ready to make significant strides in the global fight against climate change.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/the-environment/24042024/sintef-to-lead-research-centre-on-carbon-capture/