ERCE’s experts, Paul Chernik, Ellen Mitchell, and Matteo Caniggia, have co-authored a paper titled “Effective Communication in an Emerging CCS Industry – An Application of the SPE SRMS to Convey Contingencies, Uncertainties, Commerciality, and Progress to Project Approval.” The paper focuses on the critical role of clear communication in the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) sector and explores the use of the SPE’s Storage Resource Management System (SRMS) as a tool for improving project reporting.

As the global focus on CCS intensifies to meet climate goals, especially post-COP28, the need for transparent communication with stakeholders is becoming increasingly important. The SRMS provides a structured approach to reporting on contingencies, uncertainties, and the commercial potential of CCS projects. However, as the team highlight, while the SRMS offers a framework, its practical application in public domain communication has been limited to date.

This paper introduces innovations that build on the SRMS guidelines, addressing challenges such as communicating project status and technical risks. A flowchart to better interpret the SRMS has been developed, along with a framework of technical milestones to assess the maturity of various project aspects. Also incorporated, are radial data visualisations to allow for a quick comparison of multiple storage sites. These tools offer an easier route map to provide a clearer picture of how a project is progressing toward addressing risks and obtaining approval.

The ultimate goal of these improvements is to ensure that CCS projects can be better and more easily understood by a broad range of stakeholders, from regulators to investors. This, in turn, builds trust in the technology and facilitates the transition to a low-carbon economy.

By improving the consistency and clarity of CCS reporting, our team believe these innovations can help accelerate the deployment of CCS and strengthen stakeholder confidence in this emerging and critical industry.

Read the full paper here: Frontiers in Energy Research

ERCE’s Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) team is a market leader in the UK, with a wide portfolio of services that cater to the full CCS value chain. Our team, comprised of experts in geoscience, engineering, and economic analysis, has played a pivotal role in numerous high-profile CCS projects, offering clients the independent assurance and technical support needed to drive projects toward financial close and regulatory approval.

At ERCE, we provide expertise in aquifer and depleted gas reservoirs, demonstrated by our involvement in Track 1 and Track 2 licenses, CCS License Submissions, and regional screening studies. In addition, our work spans everything from early feasibility screenings to full-scale CCS development. Our services are bespoke and can encompass site screenings, risk assessments, geotechnical evaluations, and commercial and economic analysis—delivering actionable insights to our clients.

As CCS gains momentum in the fight against climate change, ERCE is committed to helping clients navigate regulatory frameworks and meet emissions targets. We provide critical support in securing CCS financing, offering third-party verifications, lenders’ advisory services, and risk assessments that align with industry standards including the SPE SRMS and ISO guidelines.

Whether you’re looking for expert guidance on CCS license applications, source-to-sink matching, or developing commercial models for carbon storage, ERCE has the solutions and expertise to ensure your project succeeds. We are trusted by clients worldwide to deliver the technical, commercial, and regulatory support needed to drive progress in CCS and decarbonisation efforts.

Let ERCE’s proven track record in CCS help you take your carbon capture projects to the next level.

For more information about our services and past projects, contact Ellen Mitchell .

References:

Chernik, P., Mitchell, E., & Caniggia, M. (2024) ‘Effective communication in an emerging CCS industry – an application of the SPE SRMS to convey contingencies, uncertainties, commerciality, and progress to project approval’, Frontiers in Energy Research, 12. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3389/fenrg.2024.1459830 (Accessed: 13 September 2024).