The Netherlands – Porthos project in the Netherlands has received a resounding endorsement from the Administrative Law Division of the Council of State. The Council’s positive ruling on the ecological assessment of the Porthos project has paved the way for the first major carbon capture, transport, and storage initiative in the country.
The Porthos project’s incorporation plan and environmental permits now allows the project to move forward. The project’s scope entails capturing and storing CO2 in depleted gas fields beneath the North Sea seabed. By effectively sequestering CO2 below the seabed, the project aims to prevent substantial amounts of this greenhouse gas from entering the atmosphere, offering a cost-effective solution in the short term.
The Council of State’s ruling stands as a resounding endorsement of the ecological assessment conducted for the Porthos project. The ecological study demonstrated that Porthos’s nitrogen deposition would not exert a significant impact on the adjacent natural areas. This decision has bolstered the project’s momentum, enabling preparations for the final investment decision.
Project goals
One of the pivotal goals of the Porthos project is to capture and store 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually. By achieving this, the initiative aligns itself closely with the Netherlands’ climate objectives. The process involves utilizing empty gas fields beneath the North Sea seabed to securely sequester CO2. This not only helps fulfill the nation’s climate goals but also offers a crucial pathway for industries to contribute to sustainability while transitioning to renewable energy and materials.
Anticipating a construction commencement in early 2024, the Porthos project is expected to take approximately two years to complete. Upon its completion, Porthos aims to be operational by 2026.
