Germany's Complex CCS Plan: Gas Plants, Restrictive Emissions, and Upcoming Debate

The German government and institutions have prioritized emission reduction and renewable energy transition. However, they are planning large-scale natural gas power plants and have restrictive definitions for industrial emissions connected to CCS systems. The Bundesrat opposes connecting gas power plants to CCS but acknowledges its importance for climate protection.

The government's stance on CCS is complex. While they claim that injecting CO2 for enhancing oil or gas production (EOR / EGR) is a form of CCS and climate protection, experts like Mark Jacobson argue that it increases overall CO2 emissions. A hearing on CCS is scheduled for October 13, followed by a discussion in the environmental committee on October 15.

Geologist Ralf Krupp disputes the government's claim that CO2 is securely sealed in underground storage facilities for geological time periods. Despite this, the research project in Brandenburg's Ketzin has been granted demonstration status in a hybrid manner. The current CCS Act permits limited CO2 injection for trials and demonstrations, but the government aims to amend the act to eliminate the preparation phase for CO2 storage. The evaluation of the trial and demonstration phase was due by the end of 2018.

Katherina Reiche, in a speech at the Bundesrat, emphasized the indispensability of CCS for climate protection, despite the technology being costly and in its early stages.

The German government's approach to CCS is multifaceted, with plans for natural gas power plants and restrictive emissions definitions. While CCS is considered crucial for climate change mitigation, its implementation and effectiveness remain debated. Upcoming hearings and discussions will further explore these issues.

Germany's Complex CCS Plan: Gas Plants, Restrictive Emissions, and Upcoming Debate