Block Energy begins CCS studies in Georgia

Block Energy PLC started Phase 2 studies for carbon capture and storage (CCS) in license XIB, Georgia. Phase 2 will include desktop and laboratory studies followed by a pilot injection scheme designed to achieve a monitoring and verification plan for carbon storage to commercialize the project.

The technology proposed for the storage of CO₂ in the Middle Eocene is like that successfully deployed by CarbFix HF in Iceland as well as the ongoing pilot by 44.01 in the UAE. CO₂ will be dissolved in water and injected into the zeolite rich Middle Eocene reservoir, where it is expected that the carbon dioxide will mineralize into calcium carbonate, a process through which the majority of CO₂ would be sequestered in less than 12 months.

The project is expected to benefit from low costs by reusing existing field infrastructure and proximity to sources of industrial emissions. Water for the scheme will be recycled from the existing Middle Eocene aquifer, a non-potable aquifer of significant size. The extensive contribution of hydro to Georgia's electricity grid further enhances the project's environmental credentials.

The studies will be undertaken in partnership with Rustavi Azot, a subsidiary of Indorama Corp., in accordance with the previously announced memorandum of understanding (MoU). Technical support will be provided by Oilfield Production Consultants Ltd. (OPC), which originally defined the potential of the license for carbon sequestration.

Following the results of Stage 2 studies, which will include a workover and the recompletion of a Patardzueli well, Block and Rustavi Azot will work together to target the pilot injection of CO₂ into the reservoir in first-quarter 2025.