Accelerate the Danish Implementation of Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage

This report encapsulates the experiences through seven key learnings and tree recommendations. The Canadian experience provides insights that, if applied smartly, can accelerate the achievement of Denmark's climate objectives. The aim is to align Denmark with its ambitious climate objectives, which encompass a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, achieving net zero emissions by 2045, becoming carbon negative by 2050, and implementing a circular economy within the carbon value chain. 

The study trip illuminated areas where Canada is ahead of Denmark in the establishment of CO2 capture, storage, and related infrastructure. Canada's conducive developmental ecosystem facilitates the swift progression of new technologies toward market integration, notably through robust university/private sector collaborations. Furthermore, the historical association of CO2 capture with the fossil industry in Canada, has attracted substantial private financing, which has enabled tangible CCUS projects on a substantial scale. 

Nonetheless, there are several indications pointing towards Denmark closing this gap. Our mission driven approach, underscored by aligned national ambitions, and initiatives like INNO CCUS, regional lighthouses, and an agile legislative framework, is moving Denmark toward parity with global CCUS leaders. This trajectory is profoundly encouraging and emphasizes Denmark's promising ascent within the CCUS landscape.

Despite the substantial differences between Canada and Denmark, including Canada’s vast land areas, lighter regulation, and technology rooted in Enhanced Oil Recovery practices, there are valuable lessons to be learned about implementation. Canada has already successfully executed large scale projects, which stands in contrast to Denmark where we are only embarking on the construction of our first full scale CCUS facilities, a collaboration involving Ørsted, Aker Carbon Capture, and Microsoft.
One significant revelation during our visit was Canada's proactive approach to the development and substantial investment in cutting edge CO2 capture technologies, such as Direct Air Capture (DAC). 

Equally impressive was how close to market ready these technologies seem to be. This presents a good opportunity for knowledge exchange and potential implementation in Denmark's CCUS journey. 

In this report you will find 7 key findings, 3 recommendations, problem analysis, a brief presentation of the results so far, and more about Canada and the delegation profiles.