Carbon capture and storage (CCS)

CCS is a proven technology used around the world, including here in Canada.

Capture technologies are fitted to a large emission source, which makes it possible to capture CO₂ emissions so they don’t end up in the atmosphere. The CO₂ is pressurized and turned into liquid form, which can flow through a pipeline to a storage facility where it is stored deep underground. Captured CO₂ is typically stored between 1,000 and 2,000 metres beneath the Earth’s surface.

CCS has the potential to help prevent CO₂ created by industrial activities from entering the atmosphere, where it would otherwise contribute to the conditions that cause climate change.

The International Energy Agency, which provides data and analysis on the global energy sector, recognizes that CCS is an important technology to help reduce CO₂ emissions in the energy sector.

Alberta has experience and expertise in the safe construction and operation of large-scale CCS projects. For example, since 2012, the Quest Carbon Capture and Storage facility in northern Alberta has been demonstrating the ability to capture and store CO₂ from industrial sources. (Canadian Natural has Quest majority ownership of 70%.) Between 2015 and 2022, the Quest facility captured and permanently stored 7.7 million tonnes of CO₂.  

By working together and with governments, oil sands companies can keep advancing environmental innovation and projects, contributing to Canada’s economy and helping to provide a secure source of energy here and to the world.