Controlling carbon emissions : the option of carbon sequestration

Carbon sequestration is a distinct technological option to control carbon emissions, complementing other measures such as improvements in energy efficiency and utilization of renewable energy sources. Carbon sequestration is most applicable to large combustion plants and specifically to thermal power stations, where it could contribute stopping the release of about 90% of generated CO2 in the atmosphere. Furthermore, carbon sequestration technologies may play a catalytic role in the deployment of a hydrogen economy complementing the production of hydrogen from fossil fuels in a sustainable manner. This publication reviews the state-of-the-art on carbon dioxide capture, transportation, utilisation and storage technologies and the economical implications of their deployment to power plants for electricity generation and hydrogen production in the EU. The report focuses on capture technologies and costs and highlights the present-day understanding of storage options (environmental impact, storage capacity, legal implications and public perception).