NORWEP advisor for LNG, Hydrogen, and CCUS, Ulrich Bünger, provides a clear update on CCS/CCUS in Germany. The report summarizes regulatory status, industry projects, and technology readiness. It emphasizes the importance of international cooperation-especially for reducing emissions.
German CCS/CCUS Report
This report provides a comprehensive update on the status, challenges, and opportunities for CCS/CCUS in Germany, emphasizing regulatory changes, industry projects, technological readiness, and the importance of international cooperation—especially with Norway—for achieving climate neutrality in the future
Key messages:
- Germany must cut 34–73 Mt CO₂/year by 2045; €47B invested. Most CO₂ will be stored abroad, mainly Norway.
- New law enables CO₂ pipelines and cross-border transport; CCS is now politically favored, but onshore storage is mostly banned.
- Industry sees CCS/CCUS as vital, with many projects targeting cement, lime, and waste. Norway is a frequent partner.
- Public opinion is mixed. Funding for hydrogen and CCS is increasing, but full funding programs are still developing.
- Germany has most tech needed; subsea pipelines/storage may need international help. Focus is on EU integration.
- EU policy pushes for EU-wide CO₂ infrastructure and negative emissions after 2050. Norway is key for storage and transport.
- Main players: Heidelberg Cement, CEMEX, HOLCIM, Equinor, Wintershall DEA, OGE, etc.
- Report includes links to policy, industry, and technical resources.