Norway – Elkem is undertaking a feasibility study to develop carbon capture in the Norwegian smelters. As part of the feasibility study, Elkem has entered into agreements with two alternative technologies providers: Aker Carbon Capture and Saipem.
Elkem, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of innovative silicon-based products, has a broad and systematic approach to lowering emissions and contributing to a sustainable future. Recently, the organization has been listed among the world’s top businesses in the area of climate openness and CDP action.
Technological and economic goals
As part of this work towards the development of carbon-neutral materials, Elkem is currently performing a feasibility report on carbon capture and storage (CCS). The goal of the study is to determine the technological and economic feasibility of installing carbon capture at its Norwegian plants in Bjølvefossen, Bremanger, Rana, Salten and Thamshavn. The project obtained financial funding from Gassnova, the Norwegian state-owned enterprise, to further develop technology through the CLIMIT programme. The results of the analysis will be transferred to Elkem plants outside Norway, including the Elkem ferrosilicon plant in Iceland.
Elkem has concluded agreements with Aker Carbon Capture and Saipem in conjunction with the analysis. Together with these collaborators, Elkem will analyze and review the various technical designs and solutions of the capture system, the liquefaction facility and the uploading of CO2 to transport ships from the Northern Lights project.
Future options
In addition to the potential for carbon capture and storage, Elkem is also exploring options for carbon capture and utilization to integrate storage and usage in the future.
The independent Norwegian research organisation SINTEF and Norwegian consultancy corporation Norsk Energi will contribute as competence partners.
The carbon capture study will be completed in the second quarter 2021.
