Northern Lights: A CO2 Transport and Storage Project to Reduce Industrial Emissions in Europe
Northern Lights is the world's first open CO2 transport and storage project designed for European industries, enabling safe and permanent underground storage of their emissions. Located in Norway, this initiative is jointly owned by TotalEnergies, Equinor, and Shell, each holding an equal stake of 33.3%.
Project Overview
- Location: Norway
- Partners: TotalEnergies (33.3%), Equinor (33.3%), Shell (33.3%)
- Main activity: Carbon capture and storage
- Commissioning: 2024
Operational Details
The first phase, which became operational in 2024, allows for the storage of up to 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually. A second phase planned for 2028 will expand this capacity, aiming to handle up to 5 million tonnes of CO2 per year.
Significance for Emissions Reduction
Developing CO2 transport and storage solutions is critical for cutting industrial emissions and presents a practical decarbonization approach for European industries. Leveraging expertise in project management, gas processing, and geosciences, the company is committed to reducing its own emissions and assisting industrial clients in meeting their decarbonization targets.
"With a capacity of 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 per year, the Northern Lights CO2 reception and storage facility, built as part of the first phase of the project, was completed in 2024."
This project exemplifies a pioneering step towards sustainable industrial practices in Europe.
Author's Summary
Northern Lights pioneers large-scale CO2 storage in Norway, offering European industries a vital tool to reduce emissions through safe, permanent underground sequestration.