A strategic framework for commercialization of carbon capture, geological utilization, and storage technology in China

Abstract

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology is widely accepted as an essential and viable option for CO2 mitigation at scale. Although CCUS technology has tremendous potential due to its outstanding mitigation capacity, strong technical readiness level, and relatively low cost, CCUS is only at the research and development (R&D) stage and is far from commercialization in China. The present study reviews the status of CCUS technology in China, including a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis. Although CCUS has notable advantages and opportunities in China, many disadvantages and challenges would need to be addressed before a commercial-scale CCUS project could commence. These disadvantages and challenges stem from technical development issues, a lack of incentive policies, China's legal and regulatory system, and a need for supplementary policies to support industrialization, among others. Lastly, a strategic framework for CCUS commercialization is proposed to bridge the gap between the current R&D stage and commercialization, with recommendations for how to accelerate the commercialization of CCUS.