Assessment of the potential for geological storage of CO2 in the vicinity of Moneypoint, Co. Clare, Ireland

The largest single point CO2 emitter in Ireland, the Moneypoint Power Station (3.95 Mt CO2 per annum), is located in Co. Clare and geologically lies within the Clare Basin. In terms of the economics of transportation of CO2 from Moneypoint, a possible local storage site would be favoured. The study investigated a number of critical criteria with respect to potential geological storage of CO2 within the onshore portion of the Clare Basin. In a screening study of this nature, the objective is to search for subsurface reservoirs that have sufficient storage capacity, good injection properties and sufficient confining potential. These properties depend on a number of geological parameters for each of the targeted formations. Reservoir size (CO2 storage capacity) depends on, among other factors, the pore volume that is available and reservoir depth. The rate at which CO2 can be injected into the reservoir is determined by the permeability and thickness of the reservoir formation(s). Confining potential depends on the seal rock type, thickness, the presence of faults and the type of trap structures. Other geological properties that are relevant for aquifer size, injectivity and seal quality also need to be considered in site characterisation studies. This study examined these key parameters using a modular approach. Extensive data collection was followed by several interpretational programmes including a detailed re-logging programme of deep historical boreholes to maximise the sub-surface data available to the project. The resultant datasets were assimilated into a Petrel geological model for the area. Two boreholes were completed at key sites within the Clare Basin. A primary objective of the drilling programme was to provide fresh material for porosity/permeability test work. Results from the rock characterisation studies were integrated into the geological model. This allowed a final assessment of the potential storage volume and suitability, revealing that the onshore portion of the Clare Basin is unsuitable for CO2 storage. © 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.