CCUS
As part of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), the Energy Mission, in collaboration with AAU’s EU Office, hosted a high-level expert session on Carbon Capture, Usage & Storage (CCUS) in Brussels. The event brought together experts from universities, the European Commission, private companies, and foundations to explore the future pathways of CCUS technologies.
🔬 From Research to Strategy: ECCSEL’s Perspective
The session opened with a compelling keynote by Klaus Tobias Mosbacher, Head of ECCSEL, who addressed the contrast between CCUS development within European research and innovation (R&I) under ECCSEL ERIC’s scope, and the broader EU Industrial Carbon Management Strategy. A key challenge was highlighted: the profitability barrier. As long as emitting CO₂ remains more profitable than reducing it, meaningful change will be difficult. Mosbacher emphasized the need for robust carbon management policies, alongside innovation and industry collaboration. Strategic insights were also shared, particularly the importance of tracking losses throughout the CO₂ management cycle.
📣 Panel Discussion: Challenges and Solutions Across the CCUS Chain
The panel, moderated by by Lasse Rosendahl, the Executive Director of CORC, brought together experts from various segments of the CCUS value chain to discuss storage security, infrastructure costs, cross-sector synergies, regulatory frameworks, and public skepticism. And while reducing fossil fuel use remains a top priority, certain industries—such as construction and lime production—will inevitably emit CO₂. Therefore, technologies like direct air capture are essential to achieving net-zero emissions.
🌍 Denmark as a Potential Storage Leader
One of the promising developments discussed was the potential to reduce storage costs by up to 60%, with underground storage deemed safe from groundwater contamination. Denmark has already been scouted for suitable sites, though further research and global surveying are needed to scale up deployment, according to Konstantinos Giannoukos from GEUS.
🧠 Public Perception and the Path Forward
Public perception emerged as a critical factor. While the technology itself receives positive feedback, the “Not in my backyard” mindset poses challenges for site selection for storage. Offshore possibilities would be preferable according to a recent study conducted by GEUS and CBS. The research states further that clear and transparent communication will be key to gaining public trust and support.
🔗 Conclusion: CCUS as a Cornerstone of Climate Strategy
The Brussels session underscored the vital role of CCUS in the transition to a net-zero society. To overcome current roadblocks and accelerate adoption, researchers, developers, and policymakers must invest in advancing CCUS technologies and integrating them into existing energy systems, while involving local municipalities and citizens in the co-creation phase, as outlined by Jakob Stoustrup.
The panel of experts: