Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage: Global and Indian Perspective

Carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) is the process by which CO₂ emitted from industrial sources and power plants is captured, converted into useful products or securely stored underground. This technology is considered essential worldwide to achieve the 1.5 °C target, as it directly reduces carbon emissions at the source while also regulating greenhouse gas levels.

For years, the United Nations climate change framework and the Paris Agreement have promoted CCUS as a primary strategy. Large‑scale projects are underway in Europe, the United States and China—such as Norway’s Nord Stream 2‑CCUS, the U.S. Pennsylvania Carbon Capture Plant, and China’s Shenyang Capture‑to‑Fuel Project. These projects have not only demonstrated technical feasibility but also presented a clear economic model for investment.

In India, the government has set a goal to establish 10 GW of CCUS capacity by 2030, incorporated into the National Climate Policy and Energy Strategy. Several energy companies have launched pilot projects, such as capturing CO₂ at coal‑based power plants and using it in chemical and petrochemical production. Additionally, some Indian state governments are identifying favourable geological formations for geological storage.

Although widespread adoption of CCUS still faces challenges such as cost, regulatory frameworks and public awareness, the continued growth in global investment and technological advancement is making it increasingly clear that CCUS is pivotal to meeting climate goals.