Germany Accelerates Carbon Neutrality with New CCS Reforms

Germany's cabinet approves reforms to expedite infrastructure for carbon capture and storage to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The legislation simplifies permitting processes and allows CO2 storage offshore or inland. Existing gas pipelines may be repurposed, and private land could be used for pipeline construction.

In a significant move towards reducing its carbon footprint, Germany's cabinet has approved reforms to expedite the development of infrastructure for carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS). These reforms, aimed at enabling the nation to become carbon neutral by 2045, will assist hard-to-decarbonise industries like cement and lime production.

The new legislation simplifies planning and approval procedures, classifying the construction and operation of CO2 storage as in the 'overriding public interest'. It permits CO2 to be stored offshore or inland, depending on federal state permissions, and allows existing natural gas pipelines to be converted for CO2 transportation.

This ambitious reform supersedes previous legislative attempts that failed. Should the need arise, private land may be legally used for building CO2 pipelines, with Germany holding substantial storage capacity in the North Sea. Up to 20 million tons of CO2 could be deposited annually, dramatically advancing Germany's carbon neutrality goals.

(With inputs from agencies.)