Victoria founding member of Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute
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16 April 2009
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The Victorian Government’s appointment as a foundation member of the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute is expected to deliver large benefits to the state as the energy industry moves towards a low carbon future, Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor said today.
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Attending the institute’s launch in Canberra today, Mr Batchelor said that as a foundation member the Victorian Government would be involved in developing the institute during its early stages.
“The Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute will research and develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) and accelerate the take up of new CCS technology and projects,” Mr Batchelor said.
“The Victorian Government is taking action to reduce Victoria’s carbon emissions and this institute will mean we have access to the latest world class information, scientists and industry leaders who are focused on accelerating CCS technology.”
The launch has coincided with a preliminary study by the Victorian Government which reveals several large areas in the Gippsland Basin have excellent potential to store carbon.
“The study, completed during the past 12 months, has been undertaken as part of the Victorian Government’s four-year $5.2 million Victorian Geological Carbon Storage initiative,” Mr Batchelor said.
“The study involved geologists analysing rock formations using 3D modelling and identifying areas at depths of between 1000 metres and 3000 metres that mimic formations where gas and oil are stored.
“The best areas identified for potential storage are offshore from Yarram to Lakes Entrance in Bass Strait.
“The results of this initial study confirm that further exploration and testing is warranted.”
Carbon Capture and Storage involves the capture of carbon emissions from stationary power generators, such as the coal fired power stations in the Latrobe Valley, and injecting it deep underground for storage in the same way nature stores gas and oil underground.
Mr Batchelor said carbon capture and storage was recognised around the world as a potential way to make deep cuts to greenhouse gas emissions.
“The Victorian Government’s work around CCS is ensuring Victoria is well placed as a leader and expert in CCS development as this technology is fully explored,” he said.
In late March, the Federal Government released offshore areas in the Gippsland Basin which are now open for tender to explore.
“For companies considering bidding for these permit areas this report confirms there is real potential in Victoria for CCS. The study will also help companies searching in these areas to better target exploration,” Mr Batchelor said.
“The Victorian Government has provided $2.5 million for the Latrobe Valley Post Combustion Capture project, which last year was the first project to capture CO2 from coal-fired electricity generation in Australia.
“In addition, Victoria was the first state to pass stand-alone legislation enabling onshore injection and storage of carbon dioxide.
“The Victorian Government has provided $110 million investment for large-scale CCS demonstration projects through its Energy Technology Innovation Strategy and is also providing $6 million to support the carbon dioxide injection and storage trial in the Otway Basin being run by the Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Technologies (CO2CRC),” he said.
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