In a significant boost for carbon capture and storage (CCS) research, Western Michigan University (WMU) has been awarded a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy on August 28, 2024. This funding is part of a larger $44.5 million initiative aimed at advancing carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies across the United States. Dr. Autumn Haagsma, a leading researcher at WMU, emphasized the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to effectively tackle the challenges associated with CCUS. [3f512d0c]
The Michigan Basin, where WMU is located, has been identified as having the potential to store up to 70 gigatons of CO2, making it a critical area for CCS efforts. WMU will spearhead a regional project that includes collaborations with notable organizations such as Battelle, Carbon Solutions, and Miami University of Ohio. This project will focus on key aspects such as transportation logistics, risk evaluation, and community engagement to ensure the successful implementation of CCS technologies. [3f512d0c]
The grant will fund the project for three years, during which WMU aims to produce valuable resources, including a comprehensive CCUS directory and a detailed county-by-county map of potential storage sites throughout Michigan. This initiative aligns with broader efforts in the state and across the country to enhance carbon management strategies and combat climate change. [3f512d0c]
In parallel, Louisiana is making strides in CCS with its recent achievement of state primacy for carbon capture wells, allowing it to oversee the permitting of Class VI wells designed for permanent CO2 storage. The state has seen legislative support for CCS, with House Bill 966 facilitating faster project deployment. This legislative backing is crucial as CCS could create nearly 5,000 jobs and attract an estimated $13.7 billion in investment. [8b852c60]
Moreover, Heirloom, a leading Direct Air Capture (DAC) company, has announced plans to establish two DAC facilities in Shreveport, Louisiana, which will collectively remove up to 320,000 tons of CO2 annually. The first facility is expected to commence operations by 2026, further solidifying Louisiana's role as a hub for carbon management. [cee94d57]
As both Louisiana and Michigan advance their carbon capture initiatives, the collaboration between state policies, academic institutions, and private sector innovations is essential for achieving significant environmental and economic benefits. [8b852c60]