CO2 Sequestration
Carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration is being carefully researched as a way to safely and cost-effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Sequestration of anthropogenic carbon dioxide reduces CO2 emissions to the atmosphere and other greenhouse gas. The Western Canada Sedimentary Basin offers opportunities for sequestration of CO2 by each of the following means:
- improved recovery programs using CO2 injection into oil and gas reservoirs
- displacement of methane in deep-buried coalbeds with CO2
- CO2 injection into deep saline aquifers
- CO2 storage in salt caverns
Governments and industry are reviewing the technical merits of each alternative in different types of reservoirs and deposits with the aim of developing appropriate programs. Comprehensive cost estimates for each program category are being developed.
In Nova Scotia, funding from the federal government will be used to advance the understanding of underground storage opportunities. Coal-fired generating stations supply about three-quarters of the province's electricity.
