Carbon capture and storage has emerged as a vital tool in the fight against climate change, especially for capturing emissions that are challenging to prevent. Recognising its significance, European nations have been actively collaborating to advance CCS initiatives and meet ambitious climate targets.
In recent years, strategic arrangements have been forged to facilitate CCS implementation across borders. Norway and the Netherlands laid the groundwork in 2021 with an energy cooperation agreement focused on CCS, subsequently joined by Belgium in 2022 and Denmark in 2023. Additionally, joint declarations with Sweden in 2022 marked further progress in cross-border collaboration.
The latest milestone in this endeavour sees Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Sweden establishing arrangements for cross-border CO2 transport with Norway, effectively removing barriers to a well-functioning CCS market in the wider North Sea region.
Rob Jetten, minister for climate and energy of the Netherlands, emphasised the importance of such cooperation, stating that cross-border CO2 transport aligns with EU climate goals and fosters economic development. Similarly, Norway’s minister of energy, Terje Aasland, highlighted the significance of storing CO2 across national borders, underscoring its role in mitigating the climate crisis.
Danish minister for climate, energy and utilities Lars Aagaard echoed the sentiment, emphasising the necessity of international CCS efforts to achieve climate neutrality. Meanwhile, Sweden’s minister for climate and environment, Romina Pourmokhtari stressed the importance of CCS in realising a fossil-free future, citing Sweden’s potential in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage.
Belgium and its regions, Wallonia and Flanders, have also embraced CCS as a vital climate solution. The Belgian minister of the North Sea, Paul Van Tigchelt highlighted the importance of agreements with Norway for storing captured CO2 in depleted oil and gas fields. Similarly, Wallonian minister Philippe Henry and Flemish minister Zuhal Demir underscored the significance of CCS in reducing emissions and advancing renewable energy efforts.
As Europe navigates its transition towards a low-carbon future, cross-border collaboration on CCS emerges as a cornerstone of collective efforts to combat climate change and foster sustainable development. Through strategic partnerships and concerted action, these nations are paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.
For more information visit www.government.nl
