Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, or more commonly known as BECCS, is one of the technologies developed as part of the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. BECCS combines two key technologies: the use of bioenergy as a renewable energy source and carbon capture and storage technology to manage the carbon emissions generated. By utilizing BECCS, negative carbon emissions can be achieved, a condition where more carbon is removed from the atmosphere than is released.
How BECCS Works
BECCS begins with the production and use of biomass as fuel. Biomass typically comes from plants and organic waste. The biomass is processed to generate energy, either in the form of electricity, heat, or biofuel.
One of the key elements of this technology is carbon capture. During the combustion or processing of biomass, the carbon dioxide (CO2) generated is captured before it is released into the atmosphere. This carbon capture technology involves various methods, including post-combustion capture, pre-combustion capture, or direct air capture.
Once the carbon dioxide is captured, it is compressed and transported to a storage location. Usually, the carbon dioxide is injected into deep geological formations, such as underground rock layers, depleted oil or gas fields, or saline aquifers.
Benefits of BECCS
One of the main benefits of BECCS is its ability to produce clean energy while reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
This technology also supports the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as sustainably processed biomass, helping to reduce dependence on non-renewable and polluting fossil fuels.
In addition, BECCS can play a crucial role in achieving “net zero” emissions targets, particularly for sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, such as heavy industry and transportation.
Challenges in BECCS Implementation
Despite the great potential of BECCS, several challenges must be addressed before this technology can be widely implemented. First, the cost of implementing carbon capture and storage technology remains high, especially when compared to other renewable energy solutions like solar or wind power. Significant investment is needed to build carbon capture infrastructure, as well as adequate distribution and storage networks.
Moreover, BECCS requires large areas of land to grow biomass in significant quantities. This raises concerns about land use, especially if the land used for biomass competes with land for food production or natural habitats. Careful and sustainable management is essential to ensure that biomass production does not negatively impact the environment or food security.
Another challenge is the uncertainty about long-term carbon storage. Although carbon storage technology has advanced, there are still concerns about the potential for CO2 leakage from storage sites, which could undermine the long-term benefits of this technology.
Future Prospects of BECCS
In the future, BECCS has the potential to play an important role in achieving international climate goals, such as those set in the Paris Agreement. However, to realize this potential, thoughtful policies and significant investment are needed to support advancements in research and development.
Additionally, the integration of BECCS with other decarbonization strategies, such as renewable energy and improved energy efficiency, can strengthen its positive impact on global emission reductions.
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REFERENCE
Azar, C., Lindgren, K., Obersteiner, M., Riahi, K., van Vuuren, D. P., den Elzen, K. M. G., … & Larson, E. D. (2010). The feasibility of low CO 2 concentration targets and the role of bio-energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). Climatic Change, 100, 195-202.
Bui, M., Fajardy, M., & Mac Dowell, N. (2018). Bio-energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS): Opportunities for performance improvement. Fuel, 213, 164-175.
Gough, C., & Upham, P. (2011). Biomass energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS or Bio‐CCS). Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology, 1(4), 324-334.