European CCS Demonstration Project Network: Opinion on the EU Commission CCS communication

On 27 March 2013, the European Commission launched a Consultative Communication on "The future of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) in Europe" [COM(2013) 180], with the aim of initiating a debate on the options available to ensure that it is swiftly deployed.  The European Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Demonstration Project Network provided a response to this Communication, commending the European Commission for its recognition and support of CCS, as a key technology that will allow Europe to reach its environmental objectives, stimulate job creation, and generate a sustainable economic and industrial base. 
While more details are provided in the report itself, overall the Network felt that there are two main reasons why it is currently not possible for economic operators to develop a business case that allows them to invest in CCS, even at a demonstration scale. There is too much policy uncertainty; and current deployment and incentive mechanisms are insufficient. Nevertheless, the Communication represents both recognition of the challenges being faced, and an opportunity for the community to collectively progress the deployment of this key technology.