The critical role of CCUS in the energy transition
Last updated:
17/2/2025
The transition to a carbon-neutral economy represents a major challenge for the coming decades. Although renewables are gaining ground everywhere, there are still industries where decarbonization is struggling. CCUS (carbon capture, use and storage) is important in reducing harmful carbon emissions and in the fight against climate change. Laurent Remy, External Communication Manager at Fluxys nextgrid, takes stock.
CCUS is a technique to capture, transport and then reuse or store carbon emissions that come mainly from industrial processes. And to prevent CO₂ from being released into the atmosphere. "CCUS plays a key role in global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century because it can dramatically reduce CO₂ emissions from particularly polluting sectors," the specialist states.
CCUS makes it possible not only to capture CO₂ but also to produce hydrogen at a lower cost and with minimal CO₂ emissions. And there is more. "With CCUS, CO₂ can be captured directly from the air to offset unavoidable or technically difficult to remove CO₂ emissions. Since it is impossible to reuse all captured CO₂, storage is essential to achieve a carbon-neutral economy," he adds.
In Belgium, the Fluxys Group is at the forefront of developing the infrastructure needed to implement CCUS technologies. "Thanks to our expertise in the storage and transportation of natural gas through our facilities, we are paving the way for the transportation of carbon-neutral energy carriers and CO₂," explains Laurent Remy. In 2022, Fluxys created the business unit "Fluxys nextgrid," which focuses on energy transition projects.
Fluxys is currently developing an "open-access CO₂ transmission grid" in Belgium. With this they intend to transport CO₂ captured by Belgian industry and those of neighboring countries to various export points. From there, the CO₂ will be transported by ship (in liquid form) or by pipeline (in gas form), to a permanent storage site.
Europe plays a central role in the introduction of CCUS. This is why the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has set up a special technical committee. "For example, Europe needs to develop a clear regulatory framework that promotes independence of infrastructure operators and guarantees non-discriminatory access to networks. Moreover, to stimulate the market, it is crucial to reduce the risks of investing in CCUS projects through appropriate financing mechanisms."
Finally, the standardization of technical CO₂ specifications is very important to promote interconnections and to efficiently deploy the new CCUS infrastructure. At the technical level, it is also necessary to standardize CO₂ specifications (both gaseous and liquid) taking into account various CCUS technologies and segments. To achieve this, NBN has established a new standards committee: NBN/I265 'CCUS'. This committee will closely monitor and contribute to European and international developments of CCUS standards.
Carbon capture, storage and reuse are essential in combating climate change and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. A standardized approach to key CCUS domains is key to the successful development of this promising carbon reduction technology.
Find out how you can participate in developing international and European standards for CCUS.
