Decarbonizing coal-fired power plants: Carbon capture and storage applied to a thermoelectric complex in Brazil

Abstract

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies can play an essential role in the decarbonization of the energy sector, especially coal-fired power plants, considering their high-emissions character. This study assesses the theoretical potential of using CCS coupled to the Jorge Lacerda Thermoelectric Complex, which has the largest installed capacity for coal-fired power generation in Brazil. The primary focus is the geological investigation of carbon storage in units of the Paraná Sedimentary Basin. Regulatory, environmental, financial and social aspects are also considered. We conclude that implementing CCS could be a sustainable and feasible alternative for the power complex studied. We alert for the need to develop regulatory, financial, public acceptance and infrastructure aspects to support and scale CCS growth in Brazil. From the potential geological reservoirs analyzed for carbon storage, coal layers of the Rio Bonito Formation are the most interesting option, with a theoretical storage capacity of up to 38 GtCO2. Other geological formations assessed were disregarded considering the required criteria at the regional scale. Their potential at the local scale is not assessed. This case study could be replicated in other power plants aiming to achieve low-carbon standards.

Keywords

• Carbon capture and storage
• Paraná sedimentary basin
• Jorge lacerda thermoelectric complex
• Clean coal
• Decarbonization