The Department of Energy (DOE) tests will determine the region’s ability to permanently store CO2 underground. The drilling is currently being carried out on a 10,000 foot well.
The year and half study will determine whether the geology near the Mountaineer Plant is suitable for injection of carbon dioxide deep into the earth, where it would be absorbed and permanently captured.
The study is part of a $4.2 million carbon sequestration research project funded primarily by DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy.
A seismic survey was completed last month at the site before drilling commenced. To conduct the survey, a crew placed sensitive microphones on the ground and listened to the echoing vibrations created by a specially equipped “thumper” truck.
Analysis of the vibrations revealed composition of the rock layers and further assisted the scientists in determining if the geography would support carbon sequestration.
In addition to AEP, Battelle and NETL, other partners providing financial and in-kind support to the project include BP, the Ohio Coal Development Office, and Schlumberger Limited. Technical was provided by NETL and DOE’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, as well as from West Virginia University, the Ohio Geological Survey, Ohio State University, and several other leading research service providers.
