Scaling carbon capture and storage (CCS) to gigaton capacity: A multi-dimensional and critical review

Abstract

This Review examines the role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, focusing on its scale-up and integration across energy systems and hard-to-abate industries. Its interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art in CCS research, evaluating its potential role in achieving net-zero emissions. It assesses not only technological advancements and characteristics but also the critical costs and energy requirements of various CCS technologies. Based on modelling insights from the International Energy Agency Net Zero Emissions pathway, it highlights the need to scale CCS deployment to 1 Gt CO₂ annually by 2030 to stay on track for climate goals. This review piece underscores the urgency of rapid CCS scale-up this decade, complementing other measures across energy and industry. Furthermore, it assesses the recent advancements in CO₂ capture, transport, and storage technologies, along with their techno-economic characteristics and results in energy system models. The study concludes by identifying key challenges and providing a strategy roadmap for decision-makers for accelerating CCS deployment.