Quantifying the CO2 storage potential in Belgium: Working with theoretical capacities

A recurring topic in discussions on the implementation of carbon capture and storage are the uncertainties in the estimations of the storage potential. Many regions worldwide and also in Europe are indeed insufficiently explored for providing estimates that are sufficiently reliable for such purposes. In this paper we present a method through which reliable and quantitative estimates can be obtained for very poorly explored regions. This new approach is based on well-proven economic principles and expert input, which are combined with a semi-generic storage model. Evaluation of the Belgian storage potential results in an estimation of 15Mt/y (95% C.I.: 3 to 35Mt/y) when expressed as an annual injection rate, or 620Mt (95% C.I.: 150 to 1400Mt) when expressed as the total storage capacity. This estimation is that of the actual, practical storage potential, rather than a theoretical overestimation which is obtained by other methods. The reliability of the method is theoretically and empirically verified. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.