Bengaluru: On February 1, India’s finance minister announced a significant investment plan. The government will allocate ₹20,000 crores over five years to fund carbon capture technologies. This initiative aims to capture carbon emissions directly from sources like steel and cement factories, repurpose it, or store it underground to curb its release into the atmosphere.
Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) is pivotal for nations striving to meet their climate goals under the Paris Agreement. However, experts point out potential downsides. CCUS can require considerable energy and water, which could offset some of its benefits. Plus, there’s a risk that countries might lean too heavily on these technologies, assuming they can continue using fossil fuels since they have carbon removal methods in place.
These insights underline a vital message: while CCUS is essential, it shouldn’t replace efforts to improve energy efficiency or ramp up renewable energy sources. Some experts emphasize that CCUS should focus on sectors that are hardest to decarbonize, like steel and cement production.
Understanding CCUS
CCUS technologies collect carbon emissions from industrial processes. For instance, the captured carbon can turn into useful products like methanol, often used in transportation, or it can be stored deep underground. A notable project by India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) will inject carbon dioxide into depleted oil wells in Gujarat, capturing about 100 tonnes daily.
As the finance minister stated during her budget announcement, the government aims to enhance CCUS technologies across various industrial sectors. The roadmap laid out for CCUS is designed to streamline technological development and funding paths.
Weighing the Risks
Despite their potential, there are significant concerns about CCUS. Current technology allows for capturing 85-95% of emissions, but the process is energy-intensive, with estimates suggesting a 10-40% increase in energy consumption for power plants using these systems. The costs also add up, with estimates ranging from $50-$100 per ton of carbon dioxide.
Additionally, long-term storage poses risks. If carbon dioxide leaks into groundwater, it can lead to contamination, posing dangers to both people and ecosystems. Retrofitting existing industrial facilities to incorporate carbon capture can also be complicated and costly.
It’s crucial that CCUS technologies are not seen as a shortcut to avoiding necessary emissions reductions. A recent study highlights the need for clear guidance and rules to ensure that carbon capture is used wisely and effectively rather than as a blanket solution.
The Right Approach for India
Experts agree that India needs a balanced approach to tackle climate change. While CCUS plays a role, we must also focus on cutting emissions through better energy practices and increasing renewable energy. This comprehensive strategy is key for the country, especially in sectors like steel and cement that offer few alternatives.
Sandeep Pai, an energy transitions expert at Duke University, emphasizes that a diverse mix of solutions is necessary. He applauds the budget allocation for CCUS but cautions against viewing these technologies as the sole solution.
The transition to net-zero emissions calls for a blend of strategies. The commitment to CCUS aligns with India’s broader climate goals, including emissions reduction targets and increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in energy consumption.
The Need for Transparency
Transparent implementation of CCUS is essential. Past government actions raise concerns, especially regarding the exemption of many coal-fired power plants from necessary emissions control technologies. This situation could complicate future emissions reductions and create trust issues with the public.
Moreover, India’s delayed submission of its Biennial Transparency Report to the UN raises red flags about its capacity to meet global standards and commitments. Such delays expose weaknesses in tracking and reporting climate data, potentially hindering efforts to gain international credibility.
In summary, while the ₹20,000 crore investment is a step forward for CCUS in India, the country must ensure it complements other climate initiatives. A well-rounded approach that prioritizes both emission reductions and effective carbon capture strategies will be crucial in the fight against climate change.
Source link
carbon capture,carbon capture plant,Nirmala Sitharaman
