Notes from Webinar on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage in Japan

Introduction

• Kevin McCabe from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory welcomes participants.
• Hosted by CCUS initiative of the Clean Energy Ministerial.
• Sponsored by Japan CCS Company and the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.
• Technical details for participation are provided:
  • Audio options: computer mic/speakers or telephone.
  • Technical support available via GoToWebinars help desk.
  • Questions can be submitted via the questions pane.
• Recording will be available on YouTube, and slides will be on Clean Energy Solutions Center site.

Panelists

• Brian Allison: Co-lead of SEM CCUS initiative.
• Yoshihiro Sawada: Corporate Advisor at Japan CCS.
• Jiro Tanaka: Associate General Manager at Japan CCS.
• Yukihiro Kawaguchi: Director of Global Environmental Affairs Office, METI.

Presentation Highlights

Overview of Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM)

• Established in 2010 with 26 full members.
• Members responsible for 90% of clean energy investment & 75% of global CO2 emissions.
• CCUS initiative focuses on:
  • Accelerating carbon capture technology.
  • Integrating CCUS into global clean energy agenda.
  • Facilitating investments and sharing best practices.

Tomokomai CCS Demonstration Project

• Launched by METI in 2012, operational since 2016.
• Objective: Practical use of CCS technology by 2020.
• Project involves:
  • CO2 absorption tower using amine solvent.
  • Two injection wells drilled into deep offshore formations (Moibitsu and Takinoe).
  • Continuous monitoring system for safety and efficacy.

Key Results of the Tomokomai Project

• Achieved the target of 300,000 tons of CO2 injected by November last year.
• Presented data on:
  • Capture energy efficiency: <1.22 GJ/ton CO2.
  • Successful monitoring of microseismicity and no induced earthquakes.
  • Marine environmental surveys indicated no leakage.

Challenges and Issues

• Legal and regulatory frameworks for CCS in Japan are lacking.
• Need for improved public awareness and outreach regarding CCS technology.
• Ongoing issues with public acceptance and environmental monitoring standards.

Future Directions

• Plans for additional CCS demonstration projects and enhancement of business environments.
• Emphasis on international collaboration for CCS development.
• Continuous public engagement and transparency in operations.

Q&A Session

• Questions covered various topics:
  • Selection criteria for Tomokomai as demonstration site.
  • Likelihood of CO2 leakage from geological formations.
  • Public acceptance strategies and future storage site considerations.
  • Financial frameworks and legal liabilities for CCS Deployment.
  • Use of alternative CO2 capture technologies.

Conclusion

• Participants encouraged to stay informed via the CCUS initiative's communication channels.
• Appreciation extended to panelists and attendees for their participation.