Over $10 Million from the Department of Energy to Support Reducing CO₂ Emissions in Uinta Basin
Dr. Ting Xiao and Dr. Brian McPherson are currently engaged in a comprehensive project focused on carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) hubs. Their work is part of the CarbonSAFE II: Storage Complex Feasibility initiative. This aims to determine the viability of commercial CO₂ storage in Utah’s Uinta Basin.
The $ 10,033,232, granted in large part by the Department of Energy, will support an extensive range of activities, including high-resolution societal analysis, geological characterization, technical assessments, economic evaluations, and environmental analyses.
The main goal of CarbonSAFE II is to expedite Deseret Power‘s evaluation of large-scale CO₂ capture capabilities. By pooling additional sources of CO₂ storage hub development in the region, the project is a significant step towards cleaner energy production. By capturing and storing substantial amounts of CO₂ generated by industrial processes, especially those linked to fossil fuel combustion, the initiative actively contributes to shaping a safer environment.
The contract is expected to be finalized in October, with a start date of October 1, 2023.
Dr. Xiao’s and Dr. McPherson’s work, along with the many others involved in the CarbonSAFE II initiative, holds great environmental significance:
“By directly tackling the urgent problem of carbon emissions by promoting the capture and storage of CO₂, it supports the adoption of cleaner energy sources, emphasizes meticulous environmental analysis, and drives community development efforts.”
These combined endeavors will work to combat climate change, enhance air and water quality, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. All these facets are crucial for fostering a healthier, more environmentally responsible future.
Published by civil.utah.edu.
