Developing CCS into a Realistic Option in a Country's Energy Strategy

Abstract

The CARMA project investigated the potential of Carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) in Switzerland and the country-specific difficulties on the way to implementation. CCS may play a major role in the future Swiss energy scenario as a bridging technology between the phase out of nuclear energy and the establishment of an entirely renewable energy system. The key findings of the CARMA project with respect to CCS implementation are summarized. A pilot CO2-injection test on a small scale is proposed to prove the suitability of the considered geological formations for durable and safe CO2 storage, and to gain information about the deep Swiss subsurface. Furthermore, such a field test would support the development of the legal framework needed for CCS and initiate knowledge transfer to the Swiss public. The successful test site in Ketzin, Germany adapted to the Swiss context can serve as a role model.