Capturing carbon dioxide and storing it underground could mitigate the impact of greenhouse gas accumulation in our atmosphere.
That's why Tucson Electric Power is collaborating with the University of Arizona's Arizona Geological Survey and several industry partners to evaluate if carbon dioxide, or CO2, can be stored deep in the subsurface of the Harquahala basin in western central Arizona.
The $12 million CarbonSAFE II project was recently awarded a grant from the United States Department of Energy to study the feasibility of long-term underground storage of CO2 emissions from power plants and other sources. Emissions can be captured, compressed and injected into deep saline reservoirs to mitigate the effects of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
In March, scientists will begin to analyze the depth of the basin and the characteristics of the potential reservoir. Initial projections suggest its mix of underground rock formations have sufficient permeability and porosity to potentially store as much of 50 million metric tons CO2 over 30 years. That, in turn, could reduce Arizona's overall carbon emissions by 25 percent in the next 40 years.
"We are always interested in identifying solutions that help advance a clean, reliable energy future," said Erik Bakken, TEP's Chief Administrative Officer. "We know our aspirational goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 will be rooted in up-and-coming technology so we're looking forward to learning from the results of this effort."
The project will employ well drilling and advanced geological investigation methods, including seismic imaging technology that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of underground rock layers. A 3D geological reservoir model will track the size and position of the theoretical carbon dioxide plume over time and examine any potential risks of underground storage. The site is advantageous in part because of its very low risk of earthquakes and its proximity to existing pipeline infrastructure.
"We are excited about the opportunity to explore Arizona's deep subsurface to support clean energy options." says Brian Gootee, Chief of Basin Analysis at the Arizona Geological Survey.
The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, the University of Utah, and Los Alamos National Laboratory are partnering on the effort as well, with the UA's Office of Societal Impact evaluating community impacts and benefits.
