Assessment of Existing Underground Storage Sites for Temporary CO₂ Storage

The capture, transport, and permanent storage of CO₂ will play a key role in achieving climate goals. As the necessary transport and storage infrastructure is developed, there is a growing need for flexible storage solutions capable of storing CO₂ for limited periods of time. The research project therefore investigates the extent to which existing underground storage sites, particularly salt caverns, are suitable for the temporary interim storage of CO₂. The study examines technical, thermodynamic, and operational issues, as well as the potential impact of previous storage use on CO₂ quality.

As part of the project, the regulatory and technical framework for CO₂ storage will be described, and the behavior of CO₂ under the pressure and temperature conditions found in salt caverns will be analyzed.

The goal is to establish a scientifically sound basis for evaluating existing underground storage sites in the context of future CO₂ transport and storage chains. The results are intended to help better assess the potential and challenges of interim CO₂ storage and to position interim storage facilities as components of an efficient CO₂ infrastructure.