ADNOC Partners with US firm to explore large-scale carbon capture project

It could become ‘the first megaton-scale direct air capture (DAC) facility beyond the United States.’

Introduction

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) announced on Tuesday its collaboration with a US-based company to conduct a feasibility study for a significant carbon dioxide extraction project from the atmosphere.

The Collaboration

This “preliminary engineering study” is the result of a partnership between the state-owned ADNOC and Occidental Petroleum, following an agreement signed earlier this year. 

The objective of this partnership is to explore carbon capture and storage (CCS) as well as direct air capture (DAC) initiatives, both in the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

Project Details

The proposed project’s main goal is to capture one million tonnes of carbon dioxide yearly from the atmosphere. Remarkably, this captured carbon dioxide would be stored in “saline reservoirs not used for oil and gas production,” as mentioned in the statement.

A Landmark Achievement

If realized, this project would hold a significant distinction as “the first megaton-scale direct air capture (DAC) facility outside the United States,” as stated in the announcement. 

This endeavor underscores ADNOC’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with international efforts to combat climate change.

Addressing Climate Change

It’s noteworthy that the United Nations’ International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has identified direct air capture of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as one of the essential methods in the fight against global warming. 

This initiative by ADNOC and Occidental Petroleum reflects a proactive strategy to addressing climate change and its associated challenges.