Research

In 2001, Vattenfall started a major research and development (R&D) project with the aim of developing a commercial concept for carbon capture and storage (CCS) at power plants by 2015-2020. Today, CO₂ capture and storage is recognized as one of several climate change mitigation options.

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time. There are many ways to reduce emissions of CO₂: by optimizing existing technology, by switching to less carbon-rich fuel and by increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Vattenfall is involved in all these activities. To capture and store carbon dioxide produced in connection with the combustion of fossil fuels may be an important part of the solution.

Recognizing the opportunities of carbon dioxide capture and storage, Vattenfall started the R&D project in 2001. Vattenfall's project on CCS covers the entire chain of capturing, transporting and storing CO₂ from power plants. The Vattenfall 30 MW oxyfuel pilot plant at Schwarze Pumpe, Germany is perhaps the most well known part of Vattenfall's project on CCS.
Read about the R&D challenges we are facing

Research and development is a long-term commitment. Bringing an idea from project inception to commercial realisation often takes 10-30 years. Since the project began, engineers in Sweden and Germany have focused on the technological, environmental and social aspects of capturing and storing CO₂. Research has been carried out in broad cooperation with research institutes, universities, suppliers of technology and energy companies. Research is undertaken both internally with Vattenfall's own projects and in cooperation with others in EU-financed projects.
Read about our EU cooperation