How do regulations vary globally in terms of governing the capture, transportation, and storage of carbon dioxide for carbon capture projects?
Regulations governing the capture, transportation, and storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) for carbon capture projects vary globally due to the differing legal frameworks and priorities across countries. Some nations have specific legislation outlining technical and operational requirements, while others rely on general environmental regulations. Additionally, variations exist in terms of permitting procedures, liability issues, monitoring requirements, and financial mechanisms. International collaboration on standards is emerging to facilitate knowledge-sharing and harmonization of practices.
Long answer
Regulations pertaining to the capture, transportation, and storage of CO2 for carbon capture projects differ globally due to various factors such as legal structures, energy policies, technological capabilities, and environmental priorities within each country. While some jurisdictions have established comprehensive legislative frameworks solely dedicated to carbon capture projects, others incorporate relevant aspects into existing environmental or energy regulations.
In the United States, for example, federal laws primarily oversee CO2 capture and storage activities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established regulatory programs under the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Air Act that address specific aspects of carbon capture technology deployment. However, comprehensive governance at the federal level is yet to be implemented.
In contrast, Norway has a more developed regulatory regime for CO2 transport and storage. The Norwegian authorities regulate all development stages through different acts including the Petroleum Act for offshore storage sites and a separate Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Act for licensing onshore facilities. The CCS Act covers issues such as storage site selection criteria; risk assessments; monitoring protocols; closure policies; financial guarantees; liability provisions; public participation requirements; as well as consultation processes with other departments.
Australia has adopted a framework that involves cooperation between federal law and state-based regulations depending on jurisdictional reach. Federal laws govern offshore CCS projects under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 (OPGGS), while state-level laws regulate onshore activities concerning land use planning process in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
To facilitate global cooperation and harmonization, international organizations like the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Carbon Capture Utilization Storage Association (CCUSA) have worked on developing guidance documents, best practices, and workshops. The World Bank has also established the “Zero Routine Flaring by 2030” initiative which advocates for carbon capture projects.
In summary, regulations governing the capture, transportation, and storage of CO2 for carbon capture projects vary considerably worldwide due to differing legal structures, energy policies, and environmental priorities. While some countries have comprehensive legislation dedicated to carbon capture activities, others incorporate relevant aspects into existing frameworks. Efforts towards international collaboration and standardization are ongoing to promote knowledge-sharing and a streamlined approach to CCS projects globally.