Carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) in oil and gas reservoirs in China: Status, opportunities and challenges

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies are crucial strategies in mitigating the climate change challenge. Geological sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in depleted oil and gas reservoirs plays a significant role in CCUS initiatives, offering prospects for enhanced oil and gas recovery and huge carbon storage potential. In China, CCUS projects have been implemented for decades, necessitating a comprehensive overview to evaluate current prospects and prevailing challenges. This paper presents a meticulous review of the fundamental mechanisms underlying different CO2-EOR-EGR and storage methods within different types of oil and gas reservoirs. It provides insights into ongoing demonstration projects, showcasing the advancements in CCUS technology deployment across China. Furthermore, this paper explores the opportunities and challenges inherent in CO2 storage within these reservoirs. This comprehensive review paper offers petroleum researchers and engineers a systematic overview of China's CCUS practices, facilitating the development of CCUS strategies and contributing to the global efforts in addressing climate change.