The future of Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS): a path to net-zero

As the world intensifies efforts to combat climate change, Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) stands out as a crucial technology for reducing carbon emissions and achieving net-zero goals. CCUS involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial processes or directly from the atmosphere, repurposing it for industrial use, or securely storing it underground to prevent its release into the environment.

As technology continues to improve, we can find even more uses for CO2 instead of simply storing it. When CO2 is pumped underground, it can be used in a process called “enhanced oil recovery” to force out remaining pockets of oil that are currently unreachable. Additional uses of CO2 include making plastics, growing greenhouse plants, and making carbonated beverages.

The UK government recently stated in an article, “What is carbon capture, usage, and storage?”, that it has committed almost ￡L22bn over 25 years to this initiative. They further state:

Globally, CCS projects could reduce global carbon dioxide emissions by almost a fifth and reduce the cost of tackling the climate crises by 70%, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Forerunners in the CCS technology movement are in the United States, Canada, Norway, and China. An innovative energy company in Abu Dhabi has launched a project that turns CO2 into rock.

According to reports from IEA, roughly 51 megatons of CO2 were captured and stored in 2024. This represents 0.14% of global emissions. Adding to this momentum, 300 projects are currently in various stages of development.

While this is a good start, future technological developments will continue to bring more options that would eliminate the need for CCS, such as green hydrogen which is extracted from water using renewable electricity via an electrolyser.

Future Goals for CCUS

1. Scaling Up Deployment. By 2050, CCUS must be widely implemented across multiple industries, including power generation, cement, steel, and chemical manufacturing. Scaling up global capacity will require significant investment, government incentives, and technological advancements to lower costs and increase efficiency.
2. Advancing Direct Air Capture (DAC). Direct Air Capture technology is still in its early stages but holds promise for removing CO2 directly from the atmosphere. Future developments aim to enhance efficiency and affordability, making DAC a key contributor to achieving negative emissions.
3. Enhancing CO2 Utilization. Captured CO2 can be repurposed for various industrial applications, such as synthetic fuels, building materials, and enhanced oil recovery. Future goals include expanding markets for CO2-derived products, fostering innovation, and developing sustainable supply chains.
4. Expanding Carbon Storage Infrastructure. Safe and permanent CO2 storage in deep geological formations is essential. Future efforts will focus on identifying suitable storage sites worldwide, improving monitoring technologies, and ensuring regulatory frameworks support safe and transparent storage operations.
5. Integrating CCUS with Renewable Energy. To maximize impact, CCUS must complement renewable energy sources. Future energy systems will likely feature integrated CCUS with hydrogen production, bioenergy, and other clean energy solutions to create a truly decarbonized economy.
6. Policy and Financial Support. Governments and financial institutions must create robust policies and incentives to accelerate CCUS deployment. Carbon pricing mechanisms, tax credits, and public-private partnerships will play pivotal roles in driving adoption and innovation.

The Role of the Structural Steel Industry in CCUS

The structural steel industry is uniquely positioned to support CCUS initiatives, playing a pivotal role in achieving global decarbonization goals.

1. Low-Carbon Steel Production. The industry is advancing techniques such as hydrogen-based direct reduction and electric arc furnaces powered by renewable energy to significantly lower emissions. These innovations help reduce the carbon footprint of steel production, aligning with CCUS objectives.
2. Infrastructure for Carbon Storage. Structural steel is essential for constructing carbon capture facilities, pipelines, and storage infrastructure. The industry's expertise in high-strength, durable materials ensures that CCUS projects are built efficiently and sustainably.
3. Utilization of Captured CO2. Emerging technologies in the steel industry allow for captured CO2 to be integrated into production processes, such as using carbon to create alternative fuels or reinforcing materials. This helps close the loop on carbon emissions while maintaining industrial efficiency.
4. Enhancing Circular Economy Practices. By increasing the use of recycled steel and improving energy efficiency in manufacturing, the steel industry contributes to reducing overall emissions. Additionally, incorporating CCUS in steel plants can further decarbonize operations.
5. Collaborations and Policy Advocacy. The structural steel industry can collaborate with policymakers, research institutions, and other industries to accelerate CCUS adoption. By advocating for supportive policies, incentives, and funding, the industry can help drive large-scale implementation.

The Contribution of Steel Erection Companies to CCUS Goals

Steel erection companies play a vital role in enabling CCUS success by ensuring the efficient construction and integration of critical infrastructure.

At Danny's Construction Company, LLC , we are poised and ready to help build the projects that will create a stronger, cleaner, more resilient future for all of us.

Steel erection contributions include:

1. Efficient and Sustainable Construction Practices. Steel erection companies can adopt energy-efficient construction methods, reduce material waste, and utilize advanced prefabrication techniques to minimize the carbon footprint of CCUS infrastructure projects.
2. Supporting Carbon Capture Facility Deployment. Erecting large-scale CCUS facilities requires expertise in handling high-strength steel structures. Steel erection companies contribute by building the necessary frameworks, pipelines, and storage facilities needed for effective CO2 capture and storage.
3. Safety and Compliance in Carbon Storage Sites. Given the complexity of CCUS projects, steel erection companies play a key role in ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards, helping to create secure and durable carbon storage solutions.
4. Adopting Low-Emission Equipment. The use of fuel-efficient or electric construction machinery can significantly reduce emissions from steel erection activities. Implementing greener technologies helps align with broader carbon reduction initiatives.
5. Training and Workforce Development. By equipping their workforce with skills in sustainable construction and CCUS-specific projects, steel erection companies contribute to a more capable and environmentally responsible industry.

The Road Ahead

Achieving large-scale CCUS deployment is a formidable challenge, but it is essential for limiting global warming and ensuring a sustainable future. With continued investment, technological advancements, and strong policy frameworks, CCUS can be a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. The next decades will be critical in transforming these goals into reality, securing a cleaner and more resilient planet for future generations.

It will take all of us.