CCS projects struggle to gain momentum despite federal incentives

Carbon capture and storage projects in the U.S. are lagging behind expectations despite increased incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act.

Carlos Anchondo reports for E&E News.

In short:

• Only one U.S. power plant operates with carbon capture technology, despite many projects being planned.
• The number of commercial CCS projects rose slightly, but critics worry about oversight and potential fraud.
• Increased investor interest follows the Inflation Reduction Act, but high costs and slow permitting hinder progress.

Key quote:

“We have to rely on these sort of leading indicators” of filed permit applications, project announcements and final investment decisions to see a picture of what the future holds.

— John Thompson, technology and markets director, Clean Air Task Force

Why this matters:

The slow progress of CCS projects raises concerns about meeting climate targets. Effective carbon capture plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.