Brief Overview of Carbon Dioxide Storage in Northern Greece's Prinos Depleted Oil Fields

Gorge Canter^*
*Correspondence: Gorge Canter, Department Mineral Resources Engineering, University of Western Macedonia, Kozani, Greece, Email:

Introduction

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and their role in climate change have become a global concern in recent decades. To combat the adverse effects of rising CO₂ levels, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) has emerged as a promising strategy. CCS involves capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and power plants and storing them underground in geological formations, preventing their release into the atmosphere. One such geological storage site is the Prinos depleted oil fields in northern Greece. This article provides a comprehensive overview of carbon dioxide storage in this region, exploring the geological suitability, environmental considerations, economic benefits and future prospects of CCS in the Prinos oil fields. The geological suitability of a storage site is a crucial factor for the success of carbon dioxide storage projects. The Prinos depleted oil fields, located in the northern part of Greece, offer an excellent geological setting for CCS. These fields have been in operation for decades, producing oil and gas from various reservoirs, resulting in extensive knowledge of the subsurface geology [1].

Description

The reservoirs in the Prinos oil fields are made up of porous sedimentary rocks, primarily limestone and sandstone. These rocks have proven to be effective at trapping hydrocarbons for millions of years, which suggests their potential to securely contain injected CO₂. Additionally, geological studies have shown that the reservoirs are structurally stable, minimizing the risk of leakage or fracturing. The presence of an impermeable cap rock further ensures the confinement of stored CO₂. Carbon dioxide capture is the process of isolating CO₂ emissions from various industrial sources. In the context of CCS, the Prinos depleted oil fields can serve as a repository for captured CO₂. Several sources of CO₂ emissions in the region could be targeted for capture, including power plants, industrial facilities, and even emissions from the oil and gas sector itself. To initiate a CCS project in this area, existing infrastructure used for oil and gas extraction can be repurposed for the injection and monitoring of CO₂. These facilities, such as wellbores, pipelines, and injection equipment, provide a significant advantage in terms of cost and accessibility [2,3].

One key concern is the potential for CO₂ leakage. However, the geological features of the Prinos fields, as previously mentioned, are wellsuited to contain CO₂. Additionally, continuous monitoring through a network of sensors and regular site inspections can quickly detect and mitigate any leaks. Stringent regulatory frameworks and safety measures can further reduce the risk. Another environmental consideration is the transportation of captured CO₂ to the storage site. The use of pipelines for transport can be more energy-efficient and cost-effective than alternative methods, such as road or rail transport. However, pipeline construction should adhere to strict safety and environmental standards to minimize any potential impact on the surrounding area. Implementing CCS in the Prinos depleted oil fields can bring about several economic benefits for northern Greece and the broader region. CCS projects necessitate skilled labor for the construction, operation, and maintenance of storage facilities and pipelines. The carbon market is growing, and governments and industries worldwide are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint [4].

The implementation of carbon dioxide storage in the Prinos depleted oil fields holds significant promise for northern Greece and contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change. As the world transitions toward a low-carbon economy, CCS projects will play an increasingly vital role. As technology evolves, CCS methods and monitoring techniques will continue to improve. Innovations in CO₂ capture, transportation and injection will enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of CCS projects, making them even more attractive. Government policies and incentives play a crucial role in the development of CCS projects. Supportive regulatory frameworks, subsidies and tax incentives can accelerate the implementation of carbon capture and storage. International collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential for the success of CCS projects. Partnerships with other countries or regions with experience in CCS can facilitate knowledge transfer and provide valuable insights for the Prinos fields. Public acceptance and awareness of the importance of CCS are vital. Stakeholder engagement and education initiatives can address concerns and build trust within the local community, promoting the successful implementation of CCS [5].

Conclusion

Carbon dioxide storage in northern Greece's Prinos depleted oil fields presents a compelling opportunity to combat climate change while providing economic benefits to the region. The geological suitability of the site, coupled with existing infrastructure for oil and gas operations, make it an attractive candidate for carbon capture and storage. By addressing environmental concerns, harnessing economic benefits, and considering future prospects, Greece can play a significant role in the global effort to reduce CO₂ emissions and transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future. The success of CCS in the Prinos fields could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges and opportunities.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest by author.

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