The Arizona Geological Survey at the University of Arizona is spearheading a $12 million feasibility study to investigate carbon dioxide storage in the deep subsurface of the Harquahala basin. The project, funded by the Department of Energy, aims to mitigate the effects of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by capturing and injecting it into deep saline reservoirs. Led by the U of A, the CarbonSAFE II project will bring together experts from multiple institutions to assess the basin’s potential for carbon storage through well drilling and advanced geological investigations. The project team believes the site’s rock formations, proximity to carbon dioxide emitters, existing pipeline infrastructure, and low earthquake risk make it an advantageous location for carbon storage. Researchers hope to reduce Arizona’s carbon emissions by 25% over the next 40 years by capturing and storing around 50 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. The study, set to commence in March, will play a crucial role in meeting the government’s 2050 carbon emission reduction goals.
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University of Arizona to spearhead $12 million research project on subterranean carbon storage in Arizona
