A new momentum for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) in Europe

Whereas carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) is a complementary solution for energy transition and is essential in the struggle against climate, and as scenarios define ambitious objectives for this solution, the author proposes a review and a discussion of the situation of the developments of the associated techniques in Europe, outlines some key applications of CCUS, and discusses stakes and obstacles faced by CCUS. He first proposes an overview of developments noticed in 2020 and at the beginning of 2021 which demonstrate an actual acceleration during the last twelve months (notably in northern Europe and in other countries). Then, he analyses key factors which are at the root of this acceleration (higher objectives in terms of CO₂ emissions, improvement of investment conditions, emergence of a low carbon hydrogen economy, evolution towards a circular economy of carbon). The third part addresses the main locks to be unlocked or addressed again (high costs of CCUS projects, European regulatory aspects, social acceptance and storage safety). The author finally draws some lessons from these on-going developments