Development of Storage Coefficients for Carbon Dioxide Storage in Deep Saline Formations

Publication Overview

The IEA Greenhouse Gas R&D Programme (IEA GHG) commissioned the Energy and Environmental Research Centre (EERC), from the University of North Dakota, to undertake a study to develop storage coefficients for carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage in deep saline formations. The project was co-sponsored by the US Department of Energy (US DOE).

Publication Summary

Some of the more significant or recurrent comments are summarised below:

• The executive summary required further refinement, to deliver the main aspects and findings of the study in a clear and concise format which can be readily understood by non-technical specialists;
• In either the executive summary or the conclusions, a simplified tabular or graphical summary of the ranges of coefficients derived was suggested, clearly linked to the proposed storage classification scheme;
• Linked to the above bullet point, the authors questioned whether the draft report clearly conveyed how these coefficients could be applied to storage capacity estimation;
• The report stated that the coefficients are applicable at all scales. Whilst this may be true, it seems that the real benefit may be for regional studies, whereas at a site specific level, the numbers may have little value beyond initial rapid estimates or as checks for the results of detailed, site-specific assessment. Further emphasis of this point was requested in the report;
• Reviewers queried if there was appropriate discussion of onshore versus offshore storage capacity;
• The question was raised of how sensitive are coefficients derived from the study, to the assumptions concerning injection rate?
• Reviewers requested that the basis of the proposed classification scheme (SPE/CO₂CRC) should be appropriately acknowledged.