Feasibility study aims to launch large-scale CO2 storage by 2030
Singapore has joined forces with a consortium led by ExxonMobil and Shell to explore the feasibility of a cross-border carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. Announced by Second Minister for Trade and Industry Tan See Leng, the initiative aims to begin operations by 2030.
CCS technology captures, transports, and securely stores carbon dioxide to prevent its release into the atmosphere. The partnership will assess the technical and economic viability of collecting CO2 emissions in Singapore and collaborating with regional stakeholders to identify storage sites.
Dr. Tan emphasized that Singapore is eager to work with international partners to establish a regional CCS hub. As part of this effort, the country has signed a Letter of Intent with Indonesia to create a workgroup focused on CCS collaboration.
Project goals and regional cooperation
According to a joint statement from ExxonMobil and Shell, the project aims to capture and store at least 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually in deep underground or seabed locations. The consortium, known as S Hub, will lead the development, working closely with the Singapore government and private sector service providers to integrate CCS technology into the value chain.
Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) will also engage local emitters to discuss their participation in the project.
Investments in low-carbon solutions
CCS is one of Singapore’s key decarbonization strategies, alongside investments in low-carbon energy alternatives. Dr. Tan highlighted the importance of research and development (R&D) in expanding technological solutions suited to the country’s needs.
As part of the second phase of the Low-Carbon Energy Research Programme, Singapore will allocate S$55 million to 16 projects. These include initiatives under the Directed Hydrogen Programme (DHP) and the Emerging Technology Grant Call (ETGC), supporting advancements in hydrogen transport, ammonia utilization, and carbon capture innovations.
If successful, these projects could accelerate the commercial viability of hydrogen-related technologies, contributing to Singapore’s broader sustainability goals.
