ABSTRACT

Geological carbon storage (GCS) is an important component of emissions abatement and decarbonisation efforts, and measurement, monitoring and verification (MMV) plays a vital role in ensuring its effectiveness. As the business case for GCS advances, so too does the need for sophisticated MMV systems to accurately track and verify CO₂ storage. Monitoring CO₂ storage needs a ‘risk-based’ approach, whereby technologies are chosen for deployment based on the specific risks they address at each site. Several MMV technologies are emerging and intended to enhance the way CO₂ storage is monitored and managed. Technologies and techniques such as Marine Vibroseis, Passive Seismic monitoring, Gravimetry and Fibre-Optics can provide valuable insights into CO₂ behaviour within storage sites, whilst being less invasive on the environment and surrounding areas. Substantial progress has been made over decades of dedicated research and testing by CO2CRC and its collaborating partners at the Otway International Test Centre (OITC) – and there is still further work to be done. In certain settings, the adoption of these emerging technologies can reduce monitoring costs without adversely impacting on health, safety and the environment. This transformation is pivotal for scaling up GCS efforts globally, making it a more viable and attractive option for government and industry sectors focussed on reducing their carbon footprint to align with national emissions reduction targets.