The Global CCS Institute is pleased to be working with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in India to develop an Indian CCS Scoping Study and Capacity Assessment. The first consultation workshop as a part of this study was held on 25 January in New Delhi. It was very useful for myself (Capacity Development Manager) and Barry Jones (General Manager – Policy and Membership) to hear firsthand some of the views and concerns from Indian stakeholders. Unsurprisingly, they share some of the major concerns that other countries – particularly developing countries – have regarding CCS, including:

• Safety issues – particularly around CO₂ transport and injection, and the potential for leakage.
• The energy penalty – with more than 280 million people without access to electricity, the energy penalty effectively means a need to increase coal production for no increase in electricity output and makes CCS less enticing than renewable options, particular solar.

There is however an interest in CO₂ re-use.

Barry’s opening presentation focused on the ‘global status of CCS’, highlighting the fact that there are 74 large-scale, integrated projects around the world in either the planning or operational stages. Of these, eight are already operational and seven are in construction (including two power station projects). The level of engagement and questions suggested a fair degree of existing knowledge, but also a desire for more information on a range of issues.

The current focus of India’s climate change policy is on energy efficiency and renewables, and some stakeholders felt that India was not ready to consider CCS, not until it had been 'proven' in other countries. Some stakeholders expressed an interest to learn more about the experiences of other countries, especially around these areas of concern.

The Institute is happy to explore with interested Indian stakeholders how we can facilitate this knowledge sharing approach.