The energy policy consequences of future CO2 capture and sequestration technologies

Within the framework of the ETP project, the IEA has assessed the potential and the consequences of CO2 capture and sequestration for long-term energy policies. A number of policy scenarios were analysed quantitatively in order to assess the future role of CO2 capture technology from an economic, energy security and environmental perspective. The preliminary results suggest an important role for carbon capture and sequestration, provided certain new technologies will be developed successfully. This includes not only the capture and sequestration technologies, but also new clean coal fired power plants and fuel cell cars. Further R&D and technology learning based on deployment is essential in order to increase the energy efficiency and reduce the costs of CO2 capture technology. Apart from electricity production, CO2 capture can play an important role in the production of transportation fuels and in manufacturing industries. In fact there are less competing emission mitigation options in these sectors, which makes it an even more important strategy. CO2 capture helps to enhance supply security in regions where indigenous coal and gas can replace imports of oil and gas.