Air Products has taken a significant step forward in its ambitious plan to store carbon dioxide (CO2) safely and permanently beneath Lake Maurepas as part of the Louisiana Clean Energy Complex.
This innovative project aims to create clean energy and strengthen America’s energy independence by producing clean hydrogen and capturing 95 percent of CO2 emissions.
The Next Phase: Geologic Testing for Safe Carbon Storage
In the latest phase of the project, Air Products is deploying specialized equipment, including a temporary rig, to drill a permitted test well more than a mile below Lake Maurepas. The primary goal is to assess the pore space’s suitability for safe and permanent carbon storage. This thorough assessment is vital to ensure the safety and integrity of the storage process before any CO2 is permanently sequestered.
Safety at the Forefront
Andrew Connolly, Air Products’ vice president and general manager of Low-Carbon Hydrogen Large Projects, emphasized that safety is their top priority. The rigorous pore space assessment will provide a comprehensive understanding of the geology deep below the lake’s surface, where the company plans to store the captured carbon dioxide.
Data Collection and Permit Application
As part of the geologic testing, Air Products will collect core and fluid samples and other data to supplement the findings from seismic testing completed in July. The collected data will form the foundation of their permit application for a Class VI Carbon Sequestration well on Lake Maurepas.
Air Products is committed to ensuring minimal disruption to the daily use of Lake Maurepas during the project. Measures will be implemented to maintain the structures’ visibility for boaters’ safety, and updates on boater safety will be readily accessible online and through QR codes posted around the lake.
Supervisors and managers overseeing the project bring extensive experience and are deeply trained in safety and environmental stewardship. Their presence ensures the safety and well-being of the lake and all its users throughout the construction process.
Potential Impact: Clean Energy and Environmental Benefits
The Louisiana Clean Energy Complex is poised to be a game-changer for the region’s energy landscape. By producing clean hydrogen and capturing and storing CO2 emissions, the project contributes significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Furthermore, the development of clean energy technologies and carbon capture methods can drive innovation, create jobs, and position America as a global leader in the clean energy transition.
