#Sweden #Stockholm #carbon capture #Stockholm Exergi #Bio-CCS

Stockholm Exergi Initiates Groundbreaking CO₂ Capture Facility

In a pivotal move for both the company and the ongoing green transition, Stockholm Exergi has announced its plan to construct one of the largest carbon capture facilities globally. This ambitious project focuses on the permanent storage of biogenic carbon dioxide (CO₂) and is designed to play a vital role in achieving Sweden and the EU's long-term climate objectives. The investment, amounting to SEK 13 billion, aims to initiate construction immediately, with the facility expected to be operational by 2028.

A Major Milestone in Climate Commitment

Anders Egelrud, the CEO of Stockholm Exergi, expressed pride in this development, highlighting that the transition from planning to action marks a historical moment for the company. “We have worked purposefully for many years to make bio-CCS a reality,” he stated. This project signifies global leadership in the realm of permanent carbon removals.

Funded through a blend of public support and private investments, particularly through negative emission certificates, the facility will be situated near the Värtaverket energy port in Stockholm. Once finished, it will effectively capture and permanently store approximately 800,000 tonnes of CO₂ every year. This impressive amount surpasses the emissions generated from Stockholm's road traffic over the same period.

Proven Technology for a Sustainable Future

The technology behind capturing carbon dioxide has seen extensive use since the 1970s. Stockholm Exergi has tested this technology at a facility since 2019, and it has proven effective and reliable. The captured CO₂ will be stored safely in mineral-rich bedrock beneath the seabed, a method that has been monitored closely to ensure permanent storage.

Carlo Maddalena, Senior Director at APG and Chair of Ankhiale, remarked on the significance of this milestone, attributing it to the dedication and collaboration from all involved partners. He noted that bio-CCS will be crucial to achieving net-zero emissions, recognizing the project's global importance.

Stockholm is showcasing its commitment to climate action, aiming to become a “climate-positive territory” by 2030. Emilia Bjuggren, Chair of Stockholm Stadshus AB, emphasized the necessity to accelerate the transition toward sustainable solutions, and this project serves as a crucial step.

Collaboration for a Greener Future

In the logistics of this operation, Stockholm Exergi has partnered with Northern Lights for the transport and storage of CO₂. This partnership signifies a substantial expansion of Northern Lights' capabilities and is a foundational element for upcoming negative emissions projects, potentially establishing a new industry sector that positions the Nordics and Europe as pioneers in this domain.

Understanding Bio-CCS and Its Importance

Bio-CCS is fundamentally a technology aimed at capturing biogenic CO₂ before it enters the atmosphere and adds to the natural carbon cycle, eventually leading to negative emissions. Such permanent removals are an integral part of strategies aimed at mitigating emissions that are otherwise unavoidable or highly challenging to eliminate. This project is vital for meeting both climate targets and the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions.

Situated near Värtaverket, Stockholm Exergi's new facility will bolster the existing sustainable heat and electricity produced from forestry and sawmill residues, such as wood chips and tree branches. By adding CO₂ capture and storage capabilities, the company aims to amplify the climate benefits of its operations.

The funding for this pioneering bio-CCS project incorporates support from the EU Innovation Fund, governmental assistance from Sweden, and revenue generated via private sector engagement in the emissions market. This multifaceted financial framework underpins the significance of the Beccs Stockholm initiative, enabling it to create a lasting impact.

In conclusion, Stockholm Exergi stands at the forefront of sustainability efforts, delivering essential resources while concurrently reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels. The establishment of this CO₂ capture facility is not just a stride in corporate responsibility; it embodies a commitment to the planet's future, positioning Stockholm as a hub for innovative climate solutions.